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TRANSACTIOx^i^ ''^'^

OF THE

PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIETY

OF NEW SOUTH WALES.

On fhe Vertehrated Animals of the Lower Murray and Darling j
their habits, economy^ and geographical distribution, by
Gerard Krefft.

[Eead lOth September, 1862.]

Some of tlie observations embodied in tliis paper date back as far
as the year 1852, but the greater number are the results of a
nine months* sojourn on the Lower Murray and Darling, where,
encamped in the neighbourhood of Gol Gol, I was enabled, with
the assistance of Messrs. Williams and their devoted natives, to
thoroughly investigate the fauna of that part of Australia.

I cannot speak too highly of the valuable co-operation of
these gentlemen, the same whom Mr. Landsborough met on his
return journey at the Warrego pushing on towards the Gulf,
and whom he designates " the best of Australian Bushmen."

The Placental Mammals of this district are of course few.
They belong to the Bats, (NyctojpTiilus, Scotophilus, BMTholopTiiis,)
the Rodents, (Hydromys, Kapaloiis, MicsJ and the Carnivora,
which are represented here, as in the rest of Australia, by the

Dingo alone.

'cheiroptera.

The Bats of the Murray and Darling all belong to the family
YespertiHonidae, as the large so-called " Vampire Bat *' or
" Plying Pox " (Pteropus) is not found in those regions.

Owing to the superstitions of the natives, who look npon
every Bat as a departed friend and relative, who, according to
their ideas with regard to the transmigration of souls, has seen
better days among themselves, has throiiNTi spear and boomerang,
and feasted upon Kangaroo, Wallaby, and Emeu, the number
of Bats collected during my journey was very limited indeed.

• « • «

2': ;..• \ V^ET^ifetl^TA OF THE LOWER MUREAY,

• • « .^ • - -^

• -/W^en at* C8in'$o,wer Qreek I caught the first of these creatures,
and I was seriously informed by the natives, that it wag '' brother
belonging to black-feUow, who kill lubra if you kill him,"

Farther down the river this superstition vanished more and
more ; still they never assisted in procuring specimens of this family.

The following are the species collected : —

1. Nyctophilus Geoffkoti,

Geoffrey's NyctophUus —

observed at various places between Gunbower Creek and the
Junction of the Darling.

2. SCOTOPHILtJS PUMILUS.

The Little Bat—
of which a single specimen was caught near Mill dura, 20 miles
from the Darling.

3. SCOTOPHILUS MOlllO.

■

Chocolate Bat —

specimens of which have been captured on the Lower Darling.
I have been informed that a '' tailed Bat " was also an in-
habitant of that part of Australia, but I did not succeed in
securing a specimen. I suppose that it is a new species of the
genus Molossus, of which only a single representative is as yet
described from this country, discovered some years ago by the
late Dr. L. Becker, in the neighbourhood of Melbourne.

4. Rhinolophus megaphtllus.

The Large-leaved Horse- Shoe Bat —
frequently observed near Gunbower Creek.

CARNIYORA.

Canis Dingo.

The Dingo, Warrigal of the natives, is the only Australian
representative of the large Group of carnivorous animals inhabit-
ing every other part of the globe ; and as our " Kative Dog " has
already established a reputation for himself, I shall be as brief as
possible. In spite of the many enemies of the Dingo he is as
plentiful as ever on the Lower Murray and Darling ; neither the
strychnine of the settlers, nor the guns or spears of the Aborigi-

^ BY GEEARD KHEFFT. S

nals could exterminate the breed : which no doubt is also
maintained by stray shepherds* dogs — not all the so-called
Dingos being of the pure '* Warrigal" blood.

There is a black and tan coloared variety. Yarious littere
taken by myself had generally four pups, sometimes a pair
of each colour. The natives, who hate the Dingo most cordially
for his living on the fat of the land, kill liim on every opportunity
and eat his flesh, which is by no means of ill flavour, though
I have partaken of it under stress of hunger, and I wiU not
vouch that I should sit down to roast Dingo with the same gusto
now as ten years ago in the Murray scrub.

A question has been raised as to the origin of the Dingo in
Australia, and several high authorities are of opinion that the dog
was introduced there by man j if so, this must have been at a
very remote age, as the first molar tooth of a dog has been found
with other fossil remains in the breccia of the Wellington caves.

In those days of Diprofodonsj not only did the Dingo exist,
but also some of the animals now restricted to the island of
Tasmania, as Tliylacinus and Sarcopliilus, teeth of which I have
discovered in the same breccia, and which are now on view at
the Australian Museum.

RODENTIA.

The third group of the Australian Mammalia consists of the
Rodents, which are largely represented, and, to some extent, par-
take of the structure of the Kangaroo ; many having their hind
limbs much elongated, and moving by a succession of jumps, in
which they use the hind legs only. A few (4 species) are
aquatic (Hydromys), expert swimmers and diners, and a great
many are arboreal, and apparently the representatives of the
squirrels in Australia.

All the species observed by me on the Lower Murray, are
strictly nocturnal, and all bring forth 4 young ones (born blind)
at a time.

1. Hydromys chrysogastek.

Golden-bellied Beaver Rat.

All the specimens of this rat procm^ed by me are from Gun-
bower Creek and Lake Boga, where this animal is very plentiful.

4, VERTEBEATA OP THE LOWER MrRRAY,

It is strictly nocturnal, and was often observed after sundown,
gambolling upon the shores of that beautiful lake. The Black
Snake is a sore enemy to the young progeny of this ffydromys ;
for I captared a specimen, which, upon being opened, proved to
have swallowed a fall dozen young Beaver Rats, about the size
of new-born kittens.

This Rat is not found on the Lower Darling, at least, I was
assured by the natives that they had never seen it.

2. Hapalotis conditor.

^ Building Hapalotis.

Koel or Kohl of the natives.

Captain Sturt described this animal first, though Sir Thomas
Mitchell mentioned it before him.

It is one of the many species which will soon be extinct, as
I found that it had already retreated before the herds of sheep
and cattle across the Murray. Only a few empty nests were
occasionally met with south of that river. The few specimens
collected were captured by the natives about 10 miles north of
the Darling Junction ; though many empty nests, or rather huts,
were met with, occupied by Hapalotis apicalisj which, it appears,
often takes a fancy to the roomy structures of the building
Hapalotis, and ejects the original inhabitant. I kept both
species together in a box, but they never agreed, and, though
the building Hapalotis is much larger in size, it could never hold
its own against Hapalotis apicalis. They feed on various seeds,
bulbous roots, insects, and the smaller species of Hapalotis^ or
birds' eggs, &c., and bring forth 4 young at a time.

3. Hapalotis apicalis.

White-tipped Hapalotis.
Tillikin of the natives.

Mr. Grould figures this species, of which he mentions merely
that he received it from South Australia. I observed the first
specimens in the neighbourhood of Euston, and found it in great
numbers upon Sir Thomas Mitchell's old track on both sides of
the Murray. It also occurs on the Darling, and I have no doubt

BY GERAED KEEFFT. 5

that the late lamented Explorers called Rat Point (in the neigh-
bourhood of fort Bourke) after this Hapalotis.

They are gregarious in their habits. I have dislodged as
many as 15 specimens from a single tree, and kept large nam-
bers in captivity. They became quite tame • and many which
had escaped would fetum to join my frugal supper at night, and
help themselves, to damper especially. This is a very graceful
animal, strictly nocturnal in its habits, and its flesh white, tender,
and well-tasted.

4. Hapalotis Mitchellii.

MitohelFs Hapalotis.
Kahlpere of the natives —

is another animal which the late Sii' Thomas Mitchell first dis-
covered. I have no doubt that it is widely distributed over the
Australian continent, but I was not able to procure specimens at
Gunbower Creek, or at the Junction of the Loddon. The first
pair obtained were brought to me by natives in the ueighbourhood
of the Hurrumbidgee. This animal is very plentiful on the
DarltQg : and as many as 50 specimens were often procured by
the native women in an afternoon. It barrows into the ground,
and is dug out by them. Hapalotis Mitcliellii is strictly noctunia!
in its habits, and the female produces 4 young at a time. Though
they are easily kept in captivity, they often kill each other, if not
well supplied with food ; they also have a disagreeable habit (to
the naturalist, at least) of gnawing each others tails off.

5. MUS STJBBUFUS ?

Dusky mouse.
Pethack of the natives.

Apparently an undescribed species (for which I would propose
the name of Mus suhrujus) is found in large numbers between
Gol Gol Creek and the Darling ; it is nocturnal and gregarious,
and, like Hapalotis Mitchelliij burrows into the -ground ; 4 young
are produced at a time by the female.

All the Rodents are eaten by tiie natives, but only in case
of no other food being at hand, as a large number of these little
creatures are wanted to satisfy the hunger of a black-fellow.

This closes the list of the Placental Mammalia, which I had

6 VEIiTEBEATA OF THE LOWEE MUERAY,

an opportunity of observing. But there are, no doubt, still many
species of Rodents new to science ; in fact, several skins of
Ha/palotis were received through native tribes living some 100
milea further north, but all were in such bad preservation, that
it was found impossible to give a correct description of them.

MARSUPIALIA.

By far the larger number of animals inhabiting the extensive
plains on the Murray and Darling are marsupial ; and with a few
exceptions truly nocturnal in their habits.

This accounts for the apparent scarcity of animal life ; and
often do travellers mention, that except an occasional Kangaroo,
they have never met with any mammalian animal in the interior
of the country.

Two -thirds of the smaller mammalia collected and examined
by me on the Murray were new to many old residents, and even
the natives, who, in many parts, have acquired habits different
from their former mode of life, had almost forgotten the existence
of some of these species. With the aid of the Messrs. Williams
and the natives, I succeeded in procuring every species known
to exist in that part of Australia ; and in finding also a num.ber
of animals of this order which hitherto had been only known to
frequent Western and South Australia.

The following are the different genera : —

Dasyums.

DasyuridsB

JPhascogale.
Antechiniis.
Podabnis.

Myrmecobius,

r OhceropiiB,
Peramelidse < Perayalea.

Perameles.

PhalangistidcB [ P'^<^^<^ngwta,

L Belidmiis.

odid83

Macropus.
Onycliogalea.

lestes.

BY GERARD KREFFT. 7

I may also mention the Genus Fhascolomys (the Wombat) , as
I know upon reliable authority that P. latifrons has been killed in
the neighbourhood of the " North- wesb Bend " on the Murray.

The two genera Petaurus and PhascolarctoSj the so called
" Flying Squirreh " and " Native Beavy" are not represented ;
both frequent the rocky and mountainous districts only.

1. Dasyurus GEOrPKOYI,

Native Cat or Tiger Cat of the Settlers.
" Kettrie " of the Natives.

This is the most blood-thirsty of the Marsupial animals in-
habiting the Murray scrubs, solitary in its habits, strictly
nocturnalj and the terror of the feathered tribe, particularly of the
yellow crested Cockatoo. Afraid of nothing, it will, when
hungry, attack any other animal ; a mother will eat even her own
progeny, if she has nothing else to fall back upon.

I have ofben detected the lair of this Dasyurus by the heap of
feathers and bones generally collected at the foot of the tree upon
which it dwells ; it is eaten by the natives. The female is not
famished with the usual pouch, and in June or July brings forth
often as many as 6 young at a time, so that every teat is occu-
pied, 6 being the number of mammse generally observed in this
species. The Native Oat of our neighbourhood (Dasyurus
vi^&rrinus) is somewhat smaller in size, with a more bushy tail,
and the female furnished with 6 teats ; this may not be constantly
the case, though I am informed by my friend, Mr. E. P. Ramsay,
that various specimens examined by him had not more than 6
teats, only 4 of which were in milk. Owing to the absence of
a pouch, many of the weak young drop oif, and only a few,
generally 3 or 4, reach maturity.

All my attempts to domesticate the young have proved
fruitless ; they never learnt to recognise the hand that fed
them, and though I kept a pair nearly six months, at the
end of that time they were found only more ferocious than ever ;
having made their escape at last, they kept near the huts and
tents of the camp, conipletely clearing the place of mice and
other vermin. Wherever a spot is infested with mice or rats in
the bush (and some of the stations are overrun with them) there

8 VERTEBRATA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

is no befcfcer remedy than to procure a few young Dasyuri, whicli
having been kept on the ground for a few months, and turned
out into the store-house, will soon " effect a clearance."

The range of this species extends, according to Gould, as far
as the West Coast.

The Natives inhabiting the country near the junction of the
Darling, have some superstitions regarding this animal, and
" Jacobj" an old chief on the River, often assured me, that
" Kettrie make rain and rainbow." As his kinsmen are not fond
of rain, I suppose they kill as many Kettries as possible.

2. Phascogale caluea.

Handsome tailed Phascogale.
Kultarr, (native name.)

This is without doubt the most handsome species of the genus.
It is ashy grey above, white underneath, with long bushy
black tail, the upper half of the basal part of which is of a rich
ehesnut colour.

The few specimens which have found their way to Europe
were procured at the Williams River, Western Australia ; but
when the intervening country between the Murray River and the
West coast is better known to Naturalists, it will probably be found
that the rano^e of this beautiful creature extends over the largfer
half of the continent. The few specimens brought to me by the
natives were generally found in hollow limbs of trees. I kept
several alive for a considerable time, feeding them with live mice
or small birds. Their movements were cat-like, but very grace-
ful ; like all the members of this genus they are strictly nocturnal
in their habits. A female specimen, caught in the beginning of
June, had 8 very small young ones attached to the teats, which
were 10 in number : no regular pouch was observable, the long
hair only covering the young progeny.

My specimens were captured near Williams' Station, Gol
Gol Creek, about 10 miles from the Darling Junction.

3. Phascogale Penicillata,

Brush-tailed Phascogale.
This species, nearly allied to P. calura is, no doubt, still more
widely distributed. It is occasionally found in the neighbour-

BY GERARD KREFFT. 9

hood of Sydney, and extends its range righfc across the continent
to the west coast. On the Murray River, it is exceedingly rare ;
the only specimen I found was secured in the neighboui'hood of
Mount Hope. I have subsequently received specimens through
the natives, when at Port Lincoln ; and examined some which had
been captured at Albany on King George's Sound, and have
found them to be identical with the original Tapoa-Tafa of
White.

The only female specimen I saw had no pouch, but 10 teats
covered with long hair. I suspect that, as in the other species, a
large number of young is brought forth ; but how many reach
maturity must yet be left to be determined.

4. Phascogale lakigeea. *

Woolly Phascogale.
Kultarr (native name.)

Two single specimens of this little Phascogale were obtained
through the natives at Gol Gol Creek: one a female with 10
teats and 7 young. The hind legs in this species are long and
slender, and the natives informed me, that it lived upon the
ground, unlike the other species of this genus ; most of which are
arboreal.

The little creature, which I kept alive for several weeks, was
fond of flesh, and, when put into a box with a number of Rodents,
attacked the frightened mice immediately.

The natives informed me, that the animal was very rare ; in
fact, they had a dispute about its name, and called it " Kultarr,"
just as they did mth Phascogale caluraj while some asserted they
had never seen the animal before.

Though I offered high rewards for another specimen, I did
not succeed in procuring any more than these.

This species is also strictly nocturnal in its habits.

6. Antechinus flayipes.

Rusty footed Antechinns,
Warum (native name.)

This lively little animal is the most abundant of the Antechind,
and, though noctnrnal, is often seen during the day time. Its

10 VEKTEBEATA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

range extends from tlie east to the west coast. It used to be so
common near the camp on the Murray, that I have often captured
several specimens whenever a load of wood was brought in.
I kept many alive and always found that, like the species of
the FhasGogale, it would attack and kill any number of mice,
if put into the same box. The shallow pouch of the female is
provided with 10 teats, and as many young are sometimes
aittached to them. I find several entries in my diary corro-
borating these facts : —

Aug. 17. 1 female Antecliinus fiavipes with 10 young.
„ 39. 1 ditto „ 9 „

„ 20. 1 ditto ,, 9 „

Several females procured in September had only G young, of
much larger size, attached to the teats.

This animal is common on the North Shore, Sydney.

6. Antechinus albipes.

White-footed Antechinus,
Trara-Trammit (native name.)

One of the smallest of this genus, and widely distributed over
the whole of the southern part of the continent from Swan
River to Port Jackson. The specimens I obtained on the Plains
of the Murray are identical with specimens from this Colony, and
with those inhabiting South and Western Australia.

The female is furnished with a rather shallow pouch containing
10 teats ; and in specimens captured in July and August, from 6 to
9 young, of the size of a pea. The Katives caught this species
frequently on the Sand-hills near our camp, in King George's
Sound. A, alhipes frequents rocky places, and is often found
under stones. I have also found specimens under stones near
Manly Beach.

It bears captivity very well. I have lately found several
specimens, and succeeded in keeping them about six weeks
alive J they thrive very well, and I killed them only on
account of their rather strong odour, if fed on flesh. Though
small, they are very ferocious, and they will attack mice of double
their size, without fear.

BY GERARD KEKFFT. H

7. PODAERUS CRASSICADDATU8.

Thick- tailed Podabrus.
Mondellimdellun (native name.)

All the specimens of this species ever sent to Europe came
from the West coast of this continent ; but as I have obtained
specimens front various parts of the Murray River, I doubt not
that it inhabits the intervening country between the Swan River
colony and New South Wales. I have never seen this hand-
some little Podabrus from the eastern part of Australia,
though a species with a much longer tail (Podabrus macurus)
occurs in the neighbourhood of Brisbane, and further north. I
have kept several specimens alive for months, but always
found it necessary to separate them on account of their

I have more than once lost a number of valuable
Rodents through inadvertently adding a Podahnts, or any
species of Antecliinus to them ; they fall upon the poor mice
immediately, and kill many more than they can possibly eat.
If not supplied with food, they attack and devour each other.

Females, which the natives brought in July and August, had
from 6 to 9 young ones in the rather shallow poach. The
number of teats is 10 ; and, as I found several ^vith the whole
number in nulk, I believe that as many as 10 young are brought
forth at a birth.

All the species of the genus Anteclmius are rather sensitive
to cold ; and, when the thermometer fell as low as 30° a great
many perished.

Beyond a hoarse screech, I never noticed any voice. A
singular peculiarity in all the Dasyuridae is, that they carry their
ears folded down, never erect, when ahve : and, though I do not
want to find fault with Gould's beautiful work, I must say, that,
in this respect, the representations he gives of this tribe of the
animals of Australia are not over true to natm-e.

8. Mybmecobius fasciatus.
Banded Myrmecobius.

This singular animal which also inhabits the Plains border-
ing on the Murray and Darling, is not found close to the first

12 VERTEBEATA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

named river ; and, as far as my inquiries among the natives
went, has never occupied that part of the country. It does not
now inhabit any part of Victoria, and I think the Miuray may
be taken as its southern boundary. A quarrel existed between
the Darling natives and the tribe which accompanied me, so that
I was not able to procure any live specimens of this singular
animal, but its existence is proved sufficiently. I have been in-
formed by Mr. Scott, the owner of a Station at Tapio, about 80
miles from the Darling Junction, that the Banded Myrmecohius is
by no means rare ; and that the natives could procure specimens
for me ; but a few bad skins were aU I obtained.

How many young ones the female produces, and with how
many teats she is furnished, I am unable to say ; the only fact
proved is, that the range of Myrmecohius fasciatus is not limited
to the West Coast, and, that according to the natives, it is not
nocturnal in its habits.

9. Chj:ropus occidentalis.

The Eastern Chaeropus.
Land wan g (native name.)

This singular animal which Sir Thomas Mitchell fii'st dis-
covered in his expedition to the Darling, June 16, 1836, is still
found on the plains of the Murray ; though it is exceedingly
rare, and is disappearing as fast as the native population. The
large flocks of sheep and herds of cattle occupying the country
will soon disperse those individuals which are still to be found
in the so-called settled districts, and it will become more and
more difficult to procure specimens for our national collection.

During a period of six months, I encamped not far from the
spot where Sir Thomas Mitchell secured his tail-less animal. I
had the greatest difficulty in obtaining a few specimens, but
succeeded at last, and as I believe that nobody has ever been
able to observe the habits of this singular creature in a state of
nature, I will quote from my diary, October 4th, 1857 : —

** After returning from a short excursion into the scrub, I fell
in with a party of natives who had succeeded, at last, in securing
a pair of the GheropuSy (male and female.) They wanted all
manner of things for them, from a pair of blaukehs to a catty

BY GERARD KREFFT. 13

pipe ; and as I was very anxious to sl^etcli them from life I
emptied my pockets there and thenj and promised a grand
entertainment for the night with plenty of damper and sugar and

On arrival at the camp, the two animals were secured in a
bird cage ; and I was busy for several hours sketching my charges
in different positions.

Gould's figures of Clwero^is occidentalis are spiritless, being
taken from dry skins. T was in the habit of showing a copy of
Sir Thomas Mitchell's tail-less specimen to the natives, urging
them to procure animals of that description ; of course, they did
not recognize it as a " Landwang," and I was furnished in
consequence with a large number of the common Bandicoot
(PerameJes ohesula) minus the tail, which, to please me, had been
screwed clean out.

' About sun-down, when I was about to secure my animals for
the night, one of the nimblest made its escape, jumping clean
through the wires of the cage.

At a quick pace it ran up one of the sandstone cliffs, followed
by myself, all the black-fellows, men, women, and children, and
their docfs.

Here was a splendid opportunity for observing the motions of
the animal ; and I availed myself of it. The Chmropus progressed
like a broken down hack in a canter, apparently di^gging the
hind quarters after it ; we kept in sight of the ftigitive ; and,
after a splendid run up and down the sand hills, our pointer, who
had been let loose, brought it to bay in a salt bush.

A large tin case was fitted up for the habitation of these
animals, and provided with coarse barley grass, upon which, as
the natives informed me, they feed. Insects, particularly Grass-
hoppers, were also put into the box, and, though they were rather
restless at first, and made vain attempts to jump out, they appeared
snug enough in the morning, having constructed a completely
covered nest with the grass and some dried leaves.

During the day time, they always kept in their hiding places,
and, when disturbed, quickly returned to them ; but, as soon as
the sun was down, they became lively, jumping about and
scratching the bottom of the case, in their attempts to regain

14 VERTEBEATA OF THE LOWER MTORAY,

I kept tlaese animals upon lettuces, barley grass, bread,
and some bulbous roots, for six weeks, until the camp was broken
up, wben they were killed for the sake of their skins.

I thiuk that about 8 specimens of this species were secured
during our stay ; several of which, proved to be females with
good sized young ones in the pouch, which is very deep and runs
upwards, not like that of a Kangaroo. All were provided with
8 teats, and bore 2 young ones, only one pair of teats being
drawn.

I may mention here that the Chmropits drinks a good deal of
water, but will neither touch meat nor attack or eat mice, as the
other members of this family do.

Their dung, which I often examined when out hunting, was
entirely composed of grass, very dry, about the size of sheep's
trundles, but much longer, so that I believe, that in a state of
nature, they feed principally upon vegetables. They are very
good eating, and I am sorry to confess that my appetite more
than once over-ruled my love for science ; but 24 houi's upon

*^pig- face " (mesemhrijanthenfium) will damp the ardour of any
naturalist.

The young which I took from the pouch of several females,
never exceeded 2 in num.ber, and were so far advanced, that I con-
clude that the breeding season is in May or June. It is a
curious fact, that the third toe in the fore feet of the GlicBropus is
much more developed in the young than in the adult animal : in
fact, the former looked more like a young Perameles, than a
OJiOiropus ; the limbs being short and strongly made — the basal
half of the tail, which in the adult is covered with long black
hair, is of a dark purple colour in the nude young animal. The
eye of this species, which is very large and brilliant, is represented
much too small in Gould's figures.

10. Peeagalea lagotis.

Rabbit Rat.

Wuirrapur, (Murray natives.)

Jecko, (Darling tribes.)

This beautiful animal, like many other species, has long ago
retreated to the north of the Murray. It is social, not gregarious,

BY GERARD KREFFT. 15

in its habits, only found in pairs scattered over the wide plains
formerly the sole domain of the Kangaroo and Emeu. It digs
into the ground, forming a burrow like a rabbit, but with only
one entran ce, and differs herein from Betfongia Chraiiy the burrows
of which are provided with several outlets, and may easily be dis-
tinguished from those of the Peragalea.

As this " Rabbit Rat " often prefers entering the gi'onnd on
a hill side, and as hills, even of very slight elevation, are often
scarce on these extensive plains, it will sometimes happen, that
the Peragalea takes advantage of the mound raised upon a
departed black-fellows grave, providing for itself a habitation
beneath the natives weary bones. Upon this ground an inves-
tigator asserted, some years ago, that this animal dug out the
dead bodies of the natives and fed upon them. I think that
every naturalist that has the slightest knowledge of the habits of
this animal, will agree with me, that it is no resurrectionist, and
if it takes advantage of the " mound,'* it is only for convenience
sake, and not for criminal purposes.

It is nocturnal in its habits, feeds upon grass, roots, insects,
&o., and always retires before dawn. Its flesh is very good
eating, though the fur has a peculiar sweetish smell which is
retained for years after the skin has been cured.

The natives seldom unearth the animal ; the holes being very
deep, and often found to be uninhabited. I procured a few
specimens only, among which, was an adult female, with a very
deep pouch, 8 teats, and two large young.

All the spots which, in the adult, are covered with black hair,
were of a purple colour in the nude young specimens, which
appeared to be about four months old ; so that, according to my
diary, their breeding season will be about the beginning of May.
The pouch runs upwards.

11. Perameles fasciata.

Banded Perameles.
ThiU, (native name.)
Moncat (do. do.)

One of the many animals whose range extends from the east
to the west coast of the Continent, it is common on all parts of

16 VERTEBKATA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

the Murray Kiver, and is also found in Victoria, in South Australia,
parts of Western Australia, and in the immediate neighbourhood
of Sydney.

Though provided with strong claws it seldom burrows, except
in search of its food, which consists of insects, bulbous roots,
various herbs, &c. Nocturnal and social in its habits, the striped
(so called) " Bandicoot *' seeks shelter, during the day time, in
hollow logs, or under stones, although sometimes it consferucts a
sort of nest like the Ghceropus.

This animal bears captivity well, and becomes very expert in
catching mice. I had several about the camp ; and they proved
as useful as cats.

I was in the habit of feeding the specimens kept in a large
tin case with various kinds of Rodents, which they killed with
astonishing quickness.

The Perameles would tumble the mice about with its fore
paws, break their hind legs, and eat generally the head only.
I have seen a single individual kill as many as twenty mice in a
very short time, breaking their bones successively, after which
it would begin to satisfy its hunger.

Dm^ing the months of May, June, July, and August, female
specimens provided with 8 teats, and containing from 2 to 4
young were captured by the natives. Those obtained in August,
had grown to the size of a young rat ; fur, cream coloured, with-
out the markings upon the haunches, which appear at a more
nature age.

The flesh is palatable. The pouch runs upwards.

12. Perameles obesula.

Short' nosed Perameles.
Bandicoot of the settlers.
Pirrikin, Murray natives.

Tliis animal is the most common of the PeramelidcBj inhabiting
the whole of the Southern part of the Continent and Tasmania.
How far its range extends to the north, I have been unable to
ascertain, though I know that it is frequently met with on the
Clarence River.

The flesh is delicious, especially when done in the native style,

BY GERARD KREFFT. 17

that isj the hair removedj and the game roasted upon the coals.
From May to September, females with from 2 to 3 young ones in
the pouch were frequently captured. In October or November,
the young progeny begin to shift for themselves.

The pouch is very deep, the entrance upwards, and contains
8 teats,

, 13. Phalangista vulpina.

Yulpine or Brush- tailed " Opossum " —

So well known to everybody, that I shall not enlarge upon it ;
but merely remark that this species is the staff of life to the
natives.

I often admired my native friends, when after a hard day's
unsuccessful hunting they dropped in at the camp empty handed ;
how carefiilly they would examine the large flooded Gum-trees
(EucalifptTis rostratus), fringing the river banks, how nimbly they
would get a footing upon some hollow limb, and with what per-
severance "Possum" was dislodged, and perhaps, accidentally
dropped into the river, whence it had to be rescued by the black-
fellow's better half : for it was the question of " to eat or not
to eat."

How often the Thalangista vulpina produces young, I am not
able to tell with certainty. I think, judgiag by the large
numbers in every forest, several times a year. The female is
provided with only 2 teats, and seldom carries more than one
young one at the time.

14. Phala^'Gista ytverrina.

Ring- tailed Opossum.
Pirrath of the Murray natives.

A rare animal on the Mniray and Darling. I secured no
more than two specimens during my stay thei^. It is much
lighter in colour than the species inhabiting the Swan River
colony. The pouch in the female is provided with 2 teats.

It is one of the characteristics of the flat country tra-
versed by the Murray and Darling, that no other species of the
Plialanglstidm are found there.

The firat Bvlidceus I captured on my return, at Mount Ida,

IS VERTEBRATA OF THE LOWER IMTJRBAY, *

Mclvor Range, 80 mileB distant from the Murray, is, according
to Grould, a new species, and is figured by him in part XI. of his
Mammalia, 15, as " Bel^dceus notatus"

As I made many enquiries of the Natives about the genus
PetauruSf and found that these animals are not known to them,
I do not hesitate to consider their range to be restricted to the
mountainous coast districts.

AH the members of this family are noctumal, and the female
is provided with one pair of mammae only. In the " Flying
Squirrels " the number of young is sometimes 2 ; but the
Koala or " Native Bear " never produces more than a single
young one at a time.

I now proceed to the Kangaroo, whose form and habits seem
to have struck the discoverers of Australia with special wonder.
Large Plains are admirably adapted to the habits of these
animals, and the low lands of the Murray have once swarmed
with their numbers as they do now with cattle and sheep. At
the present time, large flocks of Kangaroos are a rare sight ; and
though I have seen as many as sixty or eighty together, I think
that this is the exception, not the rule.

The most formidable, and no doubt the handsomest species of
the whole tribe is,

16. OSPHEANTEB BUFUS.

The Great Red Kangaroo.
BuUucur of the Murray natives.

Which has become very scarce upon the left bank of the
Murray, but is still found in considerable numbers in New South
Wales and South Australia. The range of this species to the
eastward does not extend much beyond Mount Hope.

This large beautiful aninxal, about which a great deal has
been written, ought to be well known to every colonist, and yet it is
only a few months ago that the very existence of such a creature
was doubted by an enlightened " critic," who was pleased to
designate this species as ante-diluvian ; indeed it must sound
like a fable to people who know little or nothing about such
matters, if they are informed that the male of this species is of a
foxy red, and the female of a bluish grey colour.

BY GERARD KREFFT. 19

The Red Kangaroos, like the great Kangaroo, (Macropus
major) feed in flocks, and, when disturbed, the old males cover
the retreat of the fleet females who are ofi" first, so that specimens
of the latter sex are rare, the dogs generally stopping the pro-
gress of the rear-gnard of the red " old men."

In wet weather, when the chalky top soil of the " Malley
scrub " is softened, these Kangaroos are easily captured : they
sink deep into the ground, and any black-fellow's cur, trained
for such work, will stick to the tail of the Kangaroo until his
master is able to come np and crack its skull, or run a spear
through it.

The female produces one young at a time, which she carries
in her pouch until it is of considerable size. As in all the other
members of this family, the number of mammsB is four.

The flesh is very palatable — I prefer it to that of Macro^iis
major.

16. Macropus major.

The Great Kangaroo,
Bullucur of the Murray natives.

A much more common species than the preceding, and
similar in its habits, the female producing only one young one at
a tim^e. The pouch has 4 teats.

Dr, James C. Cox has lately presented two young of this
species to the Museum, which were hoth taken from the same
pouch, I mention this as being of very rare occurrence ; they are
about I inch long.

17. OnYCHOGALEA FRffiNATA.

Bridled Nail-tailed Kangaroo,
Merrin of the Mun'ay natives.

The most common of all the smaller species of the Kangaroo
tribe ; often seen out during the day-time, though, when observed
in captivity, much livelier at night ; gregarious, the female
producing one young at a time, generally in the beginning
of May ; pouch containing 4 teats. Its flesh is white and well
tasted.

20 VERTEBKATA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

18. Lagobchestes lepoeoides.

Hare Kangaroo.

Turatt of the Murray natives.

Commoii upon the level countrj between the Murray and
Darling ; strictly nocturnal and solitary in its habits ; it is seen
during the day-time only, and is generally found asleep under
some salt bush, or in any other sheltered locality. The Hare
Kangaroo is the fleetest of the whole tribe, and will, when hotly
pressed, take leaps more than 8 feet high.

A single young one is produced at a time ; pouch furnished
with 4 teats. This species is easily tamed, and I hav^e kept
several at the camp, which lived well on biscuit, bread, or boiled
rice.

Its liesh is delicious, in fact some of the best meat I ever
tasted .

19. Bettongia eufescens.

Rufous Bettongia.
Kangaroo Hat.

This animal, so common in the neighbourhood of Sydney, has
not been observed by me to the westward of the Murrumbidgee,
where Bettongia penicillata appears to take its place. Not a single
specimen was procured by the natives during my stay at the
Darling Junction ; so that T have no doubt about the extent of
its range. This animal is easily tamed, and I have kept a young
one about the size of a large rat for several weeks. The little
animal often followed me upon my excursions, seeking shelter
upon the approach of danger by creeping between my boots and
trousers.

Only one young is brought forth in June, though the pouch
contains 4 teats. The flesh of this animal is also very palatable.

20. Bettongia Penicillata.

Pencil-tailed Bettongia.
Pattuck of the Murray natives.

The smallest of the whole family, nocturnal in its habits.
Those occasionally seen during the day time have been disturbed.

BY aERARD KREFFT.

It is not very quick, and is easily caugM, even by common dogs.
I have from time to time kept^ numbers of these animals in
captivity in an enclosure of pine logs about seven feet high,
which they used to climb with a nimbleness truly astonishing,
and thus often escaped. During the day time I always noticed
these creatures crouching into some comer; the tail bronght
forward between the hind legs, the head between their paws ;
fast asleep. I noticed that they are very partial to the thick
clusters of Polygonum scrub so frequent on the Murray.

Female specimens, with never more than 1 young attached to
one of the 4 teats, were frequently brought to me by the natives.
Single specimens, with a white brush at the end of the tail,
occur occasionally.

This Bettongia and B. Ogilheiji appear to be so closely allied
to each other that I should consider them the same species.

21. Bettongia Graii.

Gray's Jerboa Kangaroo^
Booming of the Murray natives.

This burrowing Bettongia has long retreated before the herds
of cattle with which the plains bordering on the Murray are now
stocked ; and it is no longer to be found south of that river, so,
at least, the natives assured me, and whenever we went out hunt-
ing for it, we always had to cross to the New South Wales side.

N^ot a single specimen of my collection was procured in
Victoria. Although this species is constantly furnished with a
brash of white haira at the end of the tail, I consider it identical
with Gould's B, Graii, in which the white mark is wanting.

It is a truly nocturnal animal, which always leaves its burrow
long after the sun is down, in fact, never before it is quite dark.
I often watched near their holes, gun in hand, listening to their
peculiar call ; but I always had great difficulty in procuring
specimens, as they are very shy, and hardly to be distinguished
from the surrounding objects.

The best plan is always to dig them out; an operation in
which the black-feHowa are very expert, though it is rather
tedious work; the holes running into each other, and being

22 VEETEBBATA OF THE LOWEE MURRAY,

sometimes ten feet deep ; and several shafts may have to be
sunk, before a couple of " Booftiings " can be secured.

I have often seen several acres of ground covered with their
holes.

I have no doubt that this, and, perhaps, many of the other
species, breeds several times during the year, but brings forth one
young only. The pouch of the female is furnished with 4 teats.

It is difficult to keep them in captivity, as they are very wild
indeed j and either escape by a burrow, or kill themselves in
running their heads against the enclosure.

These are all the Marsupial animals proper which I have
observed j it will however be necessary to say a few words about
the sub- class of the Marsupial Group, the Monotremata, which is
represented by the following species.

22. Orkithorhtnchtjs anatinus.
The Duck-billed Platypus.

This singular animal does still exist in most of the tributaries
of the Murray, as the Loddon, Avoca, Campaspe, &c. It is ex-
tremely shy, and little is yet known about its habits and economy.
It burrows into the river bank from below the water level, and
according to Bennett, brings forth 3 young ones at a time ; some
found by that naturalist were one inch and seven- eighths in
length. Its food consists of fresh water worms, mollusca, worms,
insects, &o.

This is about all we know of the Platypus, and cannot I do
better for the benefit of science than draw attention to Pro-
fessor Owen's remarks in his elaborate paper on the monotremata ;
The great anatomist says : —

" The principal points in the generative economy of this para-
doxical species still remain to be determined by actual observation.

1. Manner of copulation.

2. Season of copulation.

3. Period of gestation .

4. The nature and succession of the temporary structm*es

developed for the support of the foetus during gestation.

5. The exact size, condition, and powers of the young at the

time of birth.

BY GEKAED KHEFFT. 23

6. The act of snckling.

7. The period during which the joung requires the lacteal

noarishment, and the age at which the animal attains

its fnll size."
Knowing that many gentlemen in the connby take great
interest in Natural Histoiy, and hare frequent opportunities of
obeerving the Ornithorhynchus, I beg to draw their attention to
the questions yet to be solved.

24. Echidna hystkix.

The Spiny Echidna.

This singular animal, of which I have seen two preserved
skins at Mount Hopej is almost less known than the Platypus.
Its geographical range does not extend far into the fiat country,
and it is generally found in mountain ranges among rocks and
stones ; a shepherd at Mount Hope assured me that the animals
which he had preserved were captured at the mount ; the natives
further down the river did not appear to be aware of the existence
of such an animal as the Echidna ; their food is said to consist
principally of ants and their eggs, though I have kept many in cap-
tivity and offered them the food mentioned, but without success.
Upon hen-eggs they subsist for some time ; they also like bread
and milkj but seldom live longer than two or three months in
captivify. I have reason to believe that, strange as it may appear,
the Echidna lives upon grass also, as I have examined several
which had the intestines full of digested grass or herbs.

Of the generation of this species nothing is as yet known, nor
have I ever seen a very young Echidna, none at least less than
six or eight inches long.

EEPTILIA.

To investigate the Reptilian fauna of a country, a longer
stay than six months is necessary, and the species which I am.
going to enumerate must be considered as but a small portion
of the reptiles inhabiting those districts. The country consists of
large plains without a stone upon them, studded with salt-bush,

VEETEBRATA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

pine forests, or mallee scrub, affording the agile reptiles unusual
facilities for escape during the summer. In the cold season these
creatures, owing to the nature of the country, retreat into the
ground, so that they can only be obtained with great difficulty ;
and this is the cause that the collection made during my sojourn
on the Murray was but a scanty one.

Those which were observed belonged to the following
genera : —

Chelonu,

Sauria.

Ophidia.

Bateachia,

a. Leptoglossss.

h, Geissosaura.

c. Pachyglossae.

1. Chelodina.

2. HydrosauTus.

3. Fygopus.

4. Lialis. ,
5 — 7. Sinulia,

8. Mocoa.

9. SiapJios.

10. Trackydosaurus.

11. Gyclodus.

12. Trojpidolepisma.
15. Diplodactylus.
18. Phyllunis.

not venomous.

venomous

19—22. Grammato^hora.

23. Morelia,

24. Acanthophis.
25 — 26. Diemenia.
27 — 28. Pseudechis

29. Hoploc&phalus.

30. Li/mnodynades.
31 — 33. Hyla.

34. Pelodryas.

CH EL ON I A.

I. Chelodina longicolli?.
The long-necked Tortoise.

This aquatic reptile is found in considerable numbers in the
Murray and its tributaries. It affords food to the natives,
especially dnring the summer, when the lagoons are dry, as it can

BY GERARD KREFFT. 25

then be procnred in large numbers without difficulty. Their eggs,
which are deposited in the beginning of January, amount to 15 or
20j perhaps even more, as the natives, who consume them in
quantities, informed me.

Like all tortoises, the present species is very tenacious of life.
On one occasion, a specimen was brought to the camp pierced by
a spear : for the sake of experiment, it was put into a case, and
kept for a few months, at the end of which, the wound was found
completely closed, and the animal as hvely as if nothing had
happened to it.

SAURIA.

2. Hydrosaurcs yarius.
The Lace Lizard.

I believe the present striped species, and the large spotted or
Grigantic Lace Lizard (H. giganteus) to be identical ; this is one of
the most common forms on the plains of the Murray ; so common,
in fact, that I have often captured half a dozen of them on my
return to the camp ; they were generally found basking in the
sun, close to their holes, down which they disappeared with
extraordinary swiftness when disturbed. They grow to a large
size, as much as 7 or 8 feet long, and feed upon carrion, as well
1^ upon living animals ; on various occasions several pounds of
bones, and once a large " opossum " was taken ft-om the stomach
of one of these reptiles.

Their eggs, of which they deposit some 10 or 15, are large,
covered with a tough leathery membrane ; the young lizards being
more than 10 inches long, at the time of birth.

The present species is well distributed over almost every part
of Australia.

3. Ptgopus lepidopodus.
The Pygopus.

This, at first appearance, snake-like form, is occasionally met
with, bat not so frequently as otter Lizards : its flat tongue, the
two rudimentary limbs near the anus, and its ear-holes, easily
distinguish it from a true suake.

26 VEKTEBEATA OP THE LOWER MURRAY,

Tlie number of eggs deposited by the present species, seldom
exceeds 3 or 4. they are of very elongate form, 3 or 4 times as
long as they are broad, and are generally hatched by the powerful
rays of the sun in 3 or 4 weeks. This lizard also has a very
wide distribution.

There has been a second species of Pygopus observed on the
Murray, marked with much more brilliant coloors than any
hitherto known; but owing to the mutilated state of the specimen
which was captured by the natives, it was found impossible to
preserve it or give a correct description thereof.

4. LULIS BUETONI.

Burton's Lialis.

This is another snake-like form, with pointed muzzle, a single
specimen of which came nnder my notice ; its range is very
extensive, as I have at various times received specimens from the
Clarence River, and from farther north. Sir Greorge Grey
mentions its occurrence in Western Australia, In its habits, it is
similar to the Pygopus.

5. HiNULIA ELEGANS.

Elegant Hiuulia.

6. HiNULIA AUSTEALIS.

Australian Hinulia ; and

7. Hl^'ULlA TENUIS.

Slender Hinulia.

Are three species of Scincoid Lizards, occasionally observed.
The first is generally found beneath the rough bark of trees. I
believe that there are many more representatives of the genus
Hinulia, but owing to their nimbleness, it was impossible to
capture many of them. The number of eggs deposited by these
Lizards has not been ascertained correctly ; perhaps they are
viviparous, and if so, may bring forth 10 to 12 young.

8. MOCOA TEILINEATA.

New Holland Moco.
This widely distributed small Lizard has been frequently

BY GERABD KEEFFT. 27

captured, it is very common under bark, or among dead leaves
or branches. Its eggs are deposited among decomposed leaves
in moist places, and are from 10 to 16, and perhaps more in
number. I have often taken as many as 50 out of one of these
breeding places, but I believe that they were the produce of
several lizards.

In the neighbourhood of Sydney, where M. triUneata is very
commonj the eggs are generally laid between the fronds of the
so called " Staghorn fern."

9, SlAPHOS BQTIALIS.

The Siaphos.

This is another small Lizard, with very short three-toed limbs •
it frequents shady or dark places, and lays but a limited number
of eggs.

10. Tkachtdosaurus eugosus.
Rugose Stump-taU.

A large, lazy, and very common kind of Lizard, generally
known as the " Sleeping Lizard," which frequents open sandy
plains, and may be captured in large numbers during a hot
summer's day.

The number of young produced, seldom exceeds 4, those
dissected by me had 2 embryos only. I believe these lizards do
not inhabit the east coast, at all events they are not found near
Sydney, or at the Hastings or Clarence Rivers.

In "Western Australia, partionlairly in the neighbourhood of
King George's Sound they are very common.

11. Ctclodus gigas.

Giant Cyclodus.

Whether this species is identical with the large Cyclodvs of
the east coast T cannot at present determine. Peters has des-
cribed a Cyclodtts from South Australia, and Dr. Schomburgk who
discovered this new species informs me that our common Giant
Cyclodvs does not exist near Adelaide ; if this is connect, the
Gyclodus found on the Murray, would be refei'able to Peters'
C. occipitalis.

28 VERTEBEATA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

One or two specimens of this Lizard were captured by the
natives.

I had been always under the impression that these reptiles
produced 2 or perhaps 3 young only, but not long ago I
dissected a large female specimen and took therefrom fifteen
well formed young, each about from 5 to 6 inches long. '

This species is prized by the natives as an article of food.

12. Tropidolepisma Kingti.
King's Tropidolepisma.

This species, (the smallest of the genus) is alone found on
the Murray, its range extends almost from the east to the west
coast, though in the immediate neighbourhood of Sydney it does
not occur.

The number of eggs or young produced by this Lizard has
not been ascertained.

13. DiPLODACTTLDS VITTATUS.

Tellow Crowned Diplodactyle.

This little Gecko is rather rare, as not more than 5 specimens
were procured through the natives during my stay on the Murray j
its distribution is very extensive, and, in fact, includes almost
every part of Australia. The Australian Museum is in possession
of specimens from the North East Coast, from the Murrumbidgee,
and from South and West Australia. Near Sydney this species
is tolerably common. It is oviparous, producing about 6 eggs.

14. DiPLODACTYLUS ORNATUS.

Beautiful Diplodactyle.

I do not think that there is another species of Lizard, so
common and so widely distributed as this ; every tree along the
river banks harbours large numbers of them, and wherever a
piece of dry bank is removed, this little Gecko is sure to be foucd
beneath, in company with various species of Coleopfcera, Blattse,
and spiders. lo stony localities it frequents the shady side of
rocks, &c. In its liabits this Lizard is truly nocturnal.

BY GERARD KREFFT. 29

15. DiPLODACTYLUS OOBLLATUS.

The Eyed Diplodactyle.

Of this rare Lizard a few solitary specimens were captured,
and these were in bad preservation and scarcely to be recognized.
The Museum has, however, lately received well preserved speci-
mens from, the Miirrumbidgee, through the kindness of Mr.
William MacLeay, M.L.A., so that I am able to enumerate this
Gecko J as inhabiting the Murray Plains.

16. Phtllueus platurtis.
Broad-tailed Gecko.

17. PhYLLCEUS INERilig.

Spineless Gecko.

18. Phyllurus miliusii.
Thick-tailed Gecko.

Have been obtained in the Mclvor ranges and neax Mount
Hope ; on the Muri^ay Plains, no specimens were observed,
though they may exist there. These three Geckos are common
near Sydney and at the Clarence and Richmond Rivers ; the last
mentioned species also occurs in "Western Australia.

19. Grammatophora ceistata.
Crested Grammatophora.

The distribution of the present species does not extend, as
far as my experience goes, beyond the mountainous districts •
upon the dividing range specimens were frequently observed, but
in the plain country they disappeared. The natives informed me
that this lizard existed near Mount Hope, but they never cap-
tured it.

Near Sydney, where this species is common, it is generally
found in the neighbourhood of water, diving into it when dis-
turbed and remaining at the bottom for a considerable time.
Specimens which I have in captivity, would lie at the bottom
of a water vessel for hours without coming to the surface to breathe.
I have watched one under water for more than forty minutes,
I was then called away, but on my return half an hour afterwards
I coidd not see the least indication that the lizard had stirred j

tt,

so VERTEBEATA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

again I watched it for some twenty minutes longer, and gave it up
at last, the reptiles being apparently under no necessity to breathe.

20. GHAMMATOPHOBA MURICATA.

The Common Grammatophora.

yhis is a well-known and very common species found in
nearly every part of Australia. It is fond of basking in the sun,
and may be frequently observed sitting motionless on old
stumps upon road side fences, &c. From 6 to 8 eggs are
generally produced, and deposited in the sand.

21. Geammatophoea oenata,

' Tellow spotted Grammatophora.

This .species is found in large number upon all the open plains,
every tuft of grass and every salt bush sheltering several of these
gaily coloured creatures ; they vary considerably in their markings,
more so even than the previous species 0. muricata. The number
of eggs produced amounts to about 8.

22. Geammatophoea baebata.
Bearded Grammatophora.

This formidable looking reptile is better known under the
name of " Jew Lizard." It cannot be considered a common form
on the Murray, but its distribution extends from the East to the
West Coast ; how far it ranges North I have not been able to
ascertain, I know however that it occurs at Wide Bay, and is
probably found all over the continent.

The number of eggs produced by this reptile is most likely
from 6 to 8, perhaps more.

OPHIDIA.

23. MORELIA vabiegata.
The Carpet Snake.

I am inclined to think that the Carpet Snake and the
Diamond Snake are identical, varying in colour in different
localities j Carpet Snakes occur in every part of Australia, the

BY aERARD KREFFT. 31

South East Coast excepted ; they differ from the Diamond Snaie
in nothing but their markings, which consist of a series of brown
blotches with darker margins, whilst the Diamond Snake is of a
glossy bluish black, with a bright yellow spot in the centre of
nearly every scale.

The Carpet Snake does not appear to be so common on the
plains or in the mountain districts, and a single specimen only
was secured ; this snake feeds upon birds, small mammals, &c.,
and produces a large number of eggs ; from 20 to 30 as the natives
informed me.

24. ACANTHOPHIS ANTARCTICA.

The Death Adder.

Of this highly venomous snake, I obtained but a single speci-
men at Lake Boga ; it brings forth about 10 or 12 young ones.

25. DtEMEXlA PSAMMOrHIS.

Grey Diemenia.

The present species so common near Sydney is not often met
with on the Murray, only one specimen being secured during 6
months ; its bite is not considered dangerous, causing only a
slight irritation, not as bad as the sting of a bee ; the total length
seldom exceeds 3 feet.

26. DIEi^E^^lA supeeciuosa.

Brown Snake.

A species, which like many others, ranges from the East to the
West Coast, and perhaps extends over the whole continent, as
I have received specimens from Cape York. Near Sydney, and
along the East Coast, the young are distinctly black, banded
with a black patch upon the head ; but the young found on the
Lachlan and in other localities to the westward are not banded.
I have received specimens from Adelaide which are plain coloured
with black patches upon head and neck, but without bands. In
a few years these bands and black spots disappear more or less,
and the adult snake is generally of an uniform brown color; there
are some individuals on the coast, however, in which the bands
may be traced when fall grown. In the specimens taken on the
MuiTay no bands or black marks could be detected.

32 VERTEBRATA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

This snake is highly venomous, and produces some 20 eggs,
which are deposited in the sand under some hramble or decayed
leaves ; it is frequently confounded with the following species.

27, PSEITDECHIS AUSTRALIS.

Yellow-bellied Brown Snake.

Hitherto considered to be a variety of the Black Snake, from
which it differs in nothing but the colour, being brown above and
yellow or orange beneath. This Snake does not occur near
Sydney ; but it appears to be common as far north as Port
Denison, from whence specimens have been obtained.

It is highly venomous.

28. PSECDECHIS PORPHTRIACUS.

Black Snake.

One of the most common and most venomous Snakes, distri-
buted over almost every part of Australia, common on the Murray,
and producing some twenty young annually.

29. HOPLOCEPHALUS CURTDS.

Brown-banded Snake.

This, the most vicious of all our reptiles, closely allied to the
Indian Cobra, is very common on the plains, in particular in the
reed-beds near Swan HUl, and in other swampy places j the
natives appear to be in great dread of this reptile, and assured
me that its bite was certain death.

This species is also found in almost every part of Australia.

These are all the Snakes actually observed by me, but no
doubt they do not represent all the species which exist in these
extensive plains.

BATRACHIA.

FROGS.
Of this order not many species were collected.

30. LlMN0l>YNASTE3 D0RSALI3.

■

Striped Swamp Frog.
In a reed-bed near Lake , Boga a single specimen was

BY GERARD KREFFT. 33

obtained. It is a common species near Sydney, on the Clarence
River, near Rylston, and in many other localities.

31. Htla atieea.

Common Golden Tree Frog.

This species, widely distributed over Australia, is the most
common of all our Batrachians : the natives when pinched for
food capture large numbers of it by the light of a torch at night ;
a supply of this frog can always be secured wherever there is
fresh water near.

32. Hyla pERONn.

Yellow-Legged Tree Frog.

This species, which ranges also over a great part of the
continent, is generally found during the day-time under the
bark of the " Flooded Gum ** ( Eucalyptus rostrata) ,

33. Hyla Adelaidensis.
Adelaide Tree Frog.

This species is not common on the Murray ; its range extends
as far as Western Australia.

34. Pelodetas cjieuleus.
Great Green Tree Frog,

The largest of our Batrachians, found in every part of Aus-
traha, and in New Guinea. I have seen specimens as large as a
man's fist. This species feeds upon almost every living object
that can be swallowed: lizards, frogs, all kinds of insects, and
young bLpds-=for I have once taken the nestling of a small
honey-eater out of the stomach of one of these insatiable
reptUes.

This concludes my notice of the reptilian fauna of the Lower
Murray, which, as before mentioned, will prove ihtich richer both
in genera and species than it appears at present to be. I could
enumerate some 5 or 6 more species, but these were in such bad
preservation that it was found impossible to determine their
character with certainty.

The following text is generated from uncorrected OCR.

[Begin Page: Title Page]

TRANSACTION'S'

PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIETY

OF NEW SOUTH WALES.

On fhe Vertebrated Animals of the Lower Murray and Darling,
their habits, economy, and geographical distribution, by
GERARD KREFFT.

[Bead 10th September, 1862.]

SOME of the observations embodied in this paper date back as far
as the year 1 852, but the greater number are the results of a
nine months' sojourn on the Lower Murray and Darling, where,
encamped in the neighbourhood of Gol Gol, I was enabled, with
the assistance of Messrs. Williams and their devoted natives, to
thoroughly investigate the fauna of that part of Australia.

The Placental Mammals of this district are of course few.
They belong to the Bats, (Nyctophilus, Scotophilus, Rhinolophus,)
the Rodents, (Hydromys, Hapaloiis, MiisJ and the Carnivora,
which are represented here, as in the rest of Australia, by the
Dingo alone.

CHEIROPTERA.

The Bats of the Murray and Darling all belong to the family
Vespertilionidae, as the large so-called " Vampire Bat " or
" Flying Fox " (Pteropus) is not found in those regions.

Owing to the superstitions of the natives, who look upon
every Bat as a departed friend and relative, who, according to
their ideas with regard to the transmigration of souls, has seen
better days among themselves, has thrown spear and boomerang,
and feasted upon Kangaroo, Wallaby, and Emeu, the number
of Bats collected during my journey was very limited indeed.

. 894053

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2* V VERTfcAfTA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

'.? rvJviJi Sfct*{&n$<xwer Oreek I caught the first of these creatures,
and I was seriously informed by the natives, that it was " brother

belonging to black-fellow, who kill lubra if you kill him."

Farther down the river this superstition vanished more and

more ; still they never assisted in procuring specimens of this family.

The following are the species collected :

1. NTCTOPHILUS G-EOFFROYI.
Geoffrey's Nyctophilus

observed at various places between Gunbower Greek and the
Junction of the Darling.

2. SGOTOPHILUS PTJMILUS.

The Little Bat

of which a single specimen was caught near Milldura, 20 miles
from the Darling.

3. SGOTOPHILUS MORIO.

Ghocolate Bat-
specimens of which have been captured on the Lower Darling.
I have been informed that a " tailed Bat " was also an in-
habitant of that part of Australia, but I did not succeed in
securing a specimen. I suppose that it is a new species of the
genus Molossus, of which only a single representative is as yet

described from this country, discovered some years ago by tine
iate Dr. L. Becker, in tine neigiibouriiood of Meibourne.

4. RHINOLOPHUS MEGAPHYLLUS.

Tine Large-ieaved Horse- Slice Bat
frequently observed near Gunbower Creek.

CARNIVORA.

CANIS DINGO.

The Dingo, Warrigal of the natives, is the only Australian
representative of the large Group of carnivorous animals inhabit-
ing every other part of the globe ; and as our " Native Dog " has
already established a reputation for himself, I shall be as brief as
possible. In spite of the many enemies of the Dingo he is as
plentiful as ever on the Lower Murray and Darling ; neither the
strychnine of the settlers, nor the guns or spears of the Aborigi-

[Begin Page: Page 3]

BYGERARDKIIEFFT. 3

nals could exterminate the breed : which no doubt is also
maintained by stray shepherds' dogs not all the so-called
Dingos being of the pure " Warrigal " blood.

There is a black and tan coloured variety. Various litters
taken by myself had generally four pups, sometimes a pair
of each colour. The natives, who hate the Dingo most cordially
for his living on the fat of the land, kill him on every opportunity
and eat '^is flesh, which is by no means of ill flavour, though
I have partaken of it under stress of hunger, and I will not
vouch that I should sit down to roast Dingo with the same gusto
now as ten years ago in the Murray scrub.

A question has been raised as to the origin of the Dingo in
Australia, and several high authorities are of opinion that the dog
was introduced there by man ; if so, this must have been at a
very remote age, as the first molar tooth of a dog has been found
with other fossil remains in the breccia of the Wellington caves.

In those days of Diprotodons, not only did the Dingo exist,
but also some of the animals now restricted to the island of
Tasmania, as Tliylacinus and Sarcophilus, teeth of which I have
discovered in the same breccia, and which are now on view at
the Australian Museum.

RODENTIA.

aquatic (Hydromys), expert swimmers and diners, and a great
many are arboreal, and apparently the representatives of the
squirrels in Australia.

All the species observed by me on the Lower Murray, are
strictly nocturnal, and all bring forth 4 young ones (born blind)
at a time.

1. HYDROMYS CHRYSOGASTER.
Golden-bellied Beaver Rat.

All the specimens of this rat procured by me are from Gun-
bower Creek and Lake Boga, where this animal is very plentiful.

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4 VERTEBRATA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

It is strictly nocturnal, and was often observed after sundown,
gambolling upon the shores of that beautiful lake. The Black
Snake is a sore enemy to the young progeny of this Hydromys ;
for I captured a specimen, which, upon being opened, proved to
have swallowed a full dozen young Beaver Rats, about the size
of new-born kittens.

This Bat is not found on the Lower Darling, at least, I was
assured by the natives that they had never seen it.

2. HAPALOTIS CONDITOE.
Building Hapalotis.

Koel or Kolnl of tine natives.

Captain Sturt described tlnis animal first, though Sir Thomas
Mitchell mentioned it before him.

It is one of the many species which will soon be extinct, as
I found that it had already retreated before the herds of sheep
and cattle across the Murray. Only a few empty nests were
occasionally met with south of that river. The few specimens
collected were captured by the natives about 10 miles north of
the Darling Junction ; though many empty nests, or rather huts,
were met with, occupied by Hapalotis apicalis, which, it appears,
often takes a fancy to the roomy structures of the building
Hapaloiis, and ejects the original inhabitant. I kept both
species together in a box, but they never agreed, and, though
the building Hapalotis is much larger in size, it could never hold
its own against Hapalotis apicalis. They feed on various seeds,
bulbous roots, insects, and the smaller species of Hapalotis, or
birds' eggs, &c., and bring forth 4 young at a time.

3. HAPALOTIS APICALIS.
White-tipped Hapalotis.
Tillikin of the natives.

Mr. Gould figures this species, of which he mentions merely

that he received it from South Austraiia. I observed the first
specimens in the neighbourhood of Euston, and found it in great
numbers upon Sir Thomas Mitcheii's oid track on both sides of
the Murray. It aiso occurs on the Dariing, and I have no doubt

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BYGERARDKREFFT. 5

that the iate lamented Explorers called Rat Point (in the neigh-
bourhood of fort Bourke) after this Hapalotis.

They are gregarious in their habits. I have dislodged as
many as 15 specimens from a single tree, and kept large num-
bers in captivity. They became quite tame ; and many which
had escaped would return to join my frugal supper at night, and
help themselves, to damper especially. This is a very graceful
animal, strictly nocturnal in its habits, and its flesh white, tender,
and well-tasted.

4. HAPALOTIS MITCHELL!!.

Mitchell's Hapalotis.

Kahlpere of the natives

is another animal which the late Sir Thomas Mitchell first dis-

covered. I have no doubt that it is wideiy distributed over the
Austraiian continent, but I was not abie to procure specimens at
Gunbower Creek, or at the Junction of the Loddon. The first
pair obtained were brought to me by natives in the neighbourhood
of the Murrumbidgee. This animai is very pientifui on the
Dariing : and as many as 50 specimens were often procured by
the native women in an afternoon. It burrows into the ground,
and is dug out by them. Hapaiotis Mitch eiiii is strictiy nocturnai
in its habits, and the femaie produces 4 young at a time. Though
they are easiiy kept in captivity, they often kiii each other, if not
weii supplied with food ; they aiso have a disagreeable habit (to
the naturalist, at least) of gnawing each others tails off.

5. MusSUBRUFUS?
Dusky mouse.
Pethack of the natives.

Apparently an undescribed species (for which I would propose
the name of Mus subrufus) is found in large numbers between
Gol Gol Creek and the Darling ; it is nocturnal and gregarious,
and, like Hapaiotis Mitchellii, burrows into the 'ground ; 4 young
are produced at a time by the female.

All the Rodents are eaten by the natives, but only in case

of no other food being at hand, as a large number of these little

creatures are wanted to satisfy the hunger of a black-fellow.

This closes the list of the Placental Mammalia, which I had

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6 VERTEBRATA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

an opportunity of observing. But tiiere are, no doubt, stiii many
species of Rodents new to science ; in fact, several skins of
Ha/patotie were received tlirougli native tribes living some 100
miles further north, but all were in such bad preservation, that
it was found impossible to give a correct description of them.

MARSUPIALIA.

By far the larger number of animals inhabiting the extensive
plains on the Murray and Darling are marsupial ; and with a few
exceptions truly nocturnal in their habits.

to exist in tlnat part of Australia ; and in finding also a number
of animals of this order which hitherto had been only known to
frequent Western and South Australia.

The following are the different genera :
f Dasijurus.

Phascogale.

Dasyuridse ~{ Antechinus.

Podabrug.

^ Mijrmecobius.

r Chceropus.

Peramelidae -{ Perayalea.
(, Perameles.

Phalangistid*

(. Bclidceus.

r Macropus.

Onychoqalca.
Macropodidas { T *

jLagorchestes.

'^ Bettongia.

[Begin Page: Page 7]

BYGERARDKREFFT. 7

I may also mention the Genus Phascoluinys (the Wombat), as
I know upon reliable authority that P. latifrons has been killed in
the neighbourhood of the " North-west Bend " on the Murray.

The two genera Petaurus and Phascolarctos, the so called
" Flying Squirrels " and " Native Bear" are not represented ;
both frequent the rocky and mountainous districts only.

1. DASYURUS GEOFFROYI.

Native Cat or Tiger Cat of the Settlers.
" Kettrie " of the Natives.

This is the most blood-thirsty of the Marsupial animals in-
habiting the Murray scrubs, solitary in its habits, strictly
nocturnal, and the terror of the feathered tribe, particularly of the
yellow crested Cockatoo. Afraid of nothing, it will, when
hungry, attack any other animal ; a mother will eat even her own
progeny, if she has nothing else to fall back upon.

I have often detected the lair of this Dasyurus by the heap of

feathers and bones generally collected at the foot of the tree upon
which it dwells ; it is eaten by the natives. The female is not
furnished with the usual pouch, and in June or July brings forth
often as many as 6 young at a time, so that every teat is occu-
pied, 6 being the number of mammas generally observed in this
species. The Native Cat of our neighbourhood (Dasyurus
viverrinus) is somewhat smaller in size, with a more bushy tail,
and the female furnished with 6 teats ; this may not be constantly
the case, though I am informed by my friend, Mr. E. P. Ramsay,
that various specimens examined by him had not more than 6
teats, only 4 of which were in milk. Owing to the absence of
a pouch, many of the weak young drop off, and only a few,
generally 3 or 4, reach maturity.

All my attempts to domesticate the young have proved
fruitless ; they never learnt to recognise the hand that fed
them, and though I kept a pair nearly six months, at the
end of that time they were found only more ferocious than ever ;
having made their escape at last, they kept near the huts and
tents of the camp, completely clearing the place of mice and
other vermin. Wherever a spot is infested with mice or rats in
the bush (and some of the stations are overrun with them) there

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8 VERTEBRATA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

is no better remedy than to procure a few young Dasyuri, which
having been kept on the ground for a few months, and turned
out into the store-house, wiii soon " effect a ciearance."

The range of this species extends, according to Grouid, as far
as the West Coast.

The Natives inhabiting the country near the junction of the
Darling, have some superstitions regarding this animal, and
" Jacob," an old chief on the River, often assured me, that
" Kettrie make rain and rainbow." As his kinsmen are not fond
of rain, I suppose they kill as many Kettries as possible.

2. PHASCOGALE CALURA.

Handsome tailed Phascogale.
Kultarr, (native name.)

natives were generally found in hollow limbs of trees. I kept
several alive for a considerable time, feeding them with live mice
or small birds. Their movements were cat-like, but very grace-
ful ; like all the members of this genus they are strictly nocturnal
in their habits. A female specimen, caught in the beginning of
June, had 8 very small young ones attached to the teats, which
were 10 in number : no regular pouch was observable, the long
hair only covering the young progeny.

My specimens were captured near Williams' Station, Gol
Gol Creek, about 10 miles from the Darling Junction.

3. PHASCOGALE PENICILLATA.
Brush-tailed Phascogale.

This species, nearly allied to P. calura is, no doubt, still more
widely distributed. It is occasionally found in the neighbour-

[Begin Page: Page 9]

BYGERARDKREFFT. 9

hood of Sydney, and extends its range right across the continent
to the west coast. On the Murray River, it is exceedingly rare ;
the only specimen I found was secured in the neighbourhood of
Mount Hope. I have subsequently received specimens through
the natives, when at Port Lincoln ; and examined some which had

been captured at Albany on King George's Sound, and have
found them to be identical with the original Tapoa-Tafa of
White.

The only female specimen I saw had no pouch, but 1 teats
covered with long hair. I suspect that, as in the other species, a
large number of young is brought forth ; but how many reach
maturity must yet be left to be determined.

4. PHASCOGALE LANIGEBA.
Woolly Phascogale.
Kultarr (native name.)

Two single specimens of this little Phascogale were obtained
through the natives at Gol Gol Creek: one a female with 1
teats and 7 young. The hind legs in this species are long and
slender, and the natives informed me, that it lived upon the
ground, unlike the other species of this genus ; most of which are
arboreal.

The little creature, which I kept alive for several weeks, was
fond of flesh, and, when put into a box with a number of Rodents,
attacked the frightened mice immediately.

The natives informed me, that the animal was very rare ; in
fact, they had a dispute about its name, and called it " Kultarr,"
just as they did with Phascogale calura, while some asserted they
had never seen the animal before.

Though I offered high rewards for another specimen, I did
not succeed in procuring any more than these.

This species is also strictly nocturnal in its habits.

5. ANTECHINUS FLAVIPES.
Rusty footed Antechinus,
Warum (native name.)

This lively little animal is the most abundant of the Antechini,
and, though nocturnal, is often seen during the day time. Its

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1 VERTEBRATA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

range extends from the east to the west coast. It used to be so
common near the camp on the Murray, that I have often captured
several specimens whenever a load of wood was brought in.
I kept many alive and always found that, like the species of
the Phascogale, it would attack and kill any number of mice,
if put into the same box. The shallow pouch of the female is
provided with 10 teats, and as many young are sometimes
attached to them. I find several entries in my diary corro-
borating these facts :

Aug. 17. 1 female Antechinus flavipes with 10 young.

19. 1 ditto 9

20. 1 ditto 9

Severai femaies procured in September Inad oniy 6 young, of
mucin larger size, attached to the teats.

This animal is common on the North Shore, Sydney.

6. ANTECHINUS ALBIPES.
White-footed Antechinus,
Tram-Trammit (native name.)

The female is furnished with a rather shallow pouch containing
10 teats ; and in specimens captured in July and August, from 6 to
9 young, of the size of a pea. The Natives caught this species
frequently on the Sand-hills near our camp, in King George's
Sound. A. albipes frequents rocky places, and is often found
under stones. I have also found specimens under stones near
Manly Beach.

It bears captivity very well. I have lately found several

specimens, and succeeded in keeping tliem about six weeks
alive ; tliey tlirive very well, and I killed them only on
account of their rather strong odour, if fed on flesh. Though
small, they are very ferocious, and they will attack mice of double
their size, without fear.

[Begin Page: Page 11]

BY GERARD KREFFT. 11

7. PODABRUS CEASSICAUDATUS.

Thick-tailed Podabrus.
Mondellundellun (native name.)

All the specimens of this species ever sent to Europe came
from the West coast of this continent ; but as I have obtained
specimens fronf various parts of the Murray River, I doubt not
that it inhabits the intervening country between the Swan River
colony and New South Wales. I have never seen this hand-
some little Podabrus from the eastern part of Australia,
though a species with a much longer tail (Podabrus macurus)
occurs in the neighbourhood of Brisbane, and further north. I
have kept several specimens alive for months, but always
found it necessary to separate them on account of their
ferocity. I have more than once lost a number of valuable
Rodents through inadvertently adding a Podabrus, or any

species of Antechinus to them ; they fall upon the poor mice
immediately, and kill many more than they can possibly eat.
If not supplied with food, they attack and devour each other.

Females, which the natives brought in July and August, had
from 6 to 9 young ones in the rather shallow pouch. The
number of teats is 1 ; and, as I found several with the whole
number in milk, I believe that as many as 1 young are brought
forth at a birth.

All the species of the genus Antechinus are rather sensitive
to cold ; and, when the thermometer fell as low as 30 a great
many perished.

Beyond a hoarse screech, I never noticed any voice. A
singular peculiarity in all the Dasyuridae is, that they carry their
ears folded down, never erect, when alive : and, though I do not
want to find fault with Gould's beautiful work, I must say, that,
in this respect, the representations he gives of this tribe of the
animals of Australia are not over true to nature.

8. MYRMECOBITJS FASCIATUS.
Banded Myrmecobius.

This singular animal which also inhabits the Plains border-
ing on the Murray and Darling, is not found close to the first

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1 2 VERTEBRATA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

named river : and, as far as my inquiries among tine natives
went, lias never occupied tliat part of tine country. It does not
now inlnabit any part of Victoria, and I think tine Murray may
be taken as its soutliern boundary. A quarrel existed between
the Darling natives and the tribe which accompanied me, so that
I was not able to procure any live specimens of this singular
animal, but its existence is proved sufficiently. I have been in-
formed by Mr. Scott, the owner of a Station at Tapio, about 80
miles from the Darling Junction, that the Banded Myrmecobius is
by no means rare ; and that the natives could procure specimens
for me ; but a few bad skins were all I obtained.

How many young ones the female produces, and with how
many teats she is furnished, I am unable to say ; the only fact
proved is, that the range of Myrmecobius fasciatus is not limited
to the West Coast, and, that according to the natives, it is not
nocturnal in its habits.

9. CH'^EOPUS OCCIDENTALIS.
The Eastern Chseropus.
Landwang (native name.)

This singular animal which Sir Thomas Mitchell first dis-
covered in his expedition to the Darling, June 1 6, 1 836, is still

found on the plains of the Murray ; though it is exceedingly
rare, and is disappearing as fast as the native population. The
large flocks of sheep and herds of cattle occupying the country
will soon disperse those individuals which are still to be found
in the so-called settled districts, and it will become more and
more difficult to procure specimens for our national collection.

" After returning from a short excursion into the scrub, I fell
in with a party of natives who had succeeded, at last, in securing
a pair of the Chwropus, (male and female.) They wanted all
manner of things for them, from a pair of blankets to a cutty

[Begin Page: Page 13]

BY GERARD KREFFT. 13

pipe ; and as I was very anxious to sketch them from life I
emptied my pockets there and then; and promised a grand
entertainment for the night with plenty of damper and sugar and
tea."

On arrival at the camp, the two animals were secured in a

bird cage ; and I was busy for several hours sketching my charges

in different positions.

Gould's figures of Chceropus occidentalis are spiritless, being
taken from dry skins. T was in the habit of showing a copy of
Sir Thomas Mitchell's tail-less specimen to the natives, urging
them to procure animals of that description ; of course, they did
not recognize it as a " Landwang," and I was furnished in
consequence with a large number of the common Bandicoot
(Perameles obesula) minus the tail, which, to please me, had been
screwed clean out.

About sun-down, when I was about to secure my animals for
the night, one of the nimblest made its escape, jumping clean
through the wires of the cage.

At a quick pace it ran up one of the sandstone cliffs, followed
by myself, all the black-fellows, men, women, and children, and
their dogs.

Here was a splendid opportunity for observing the motions of
the animal ; and I availed myself of it. The Chceropus progressed
like a broken down hack in a canter, apparently dragging the
hind quarters after it ; we kept in sight of the fugitive ; and,
after a splendid run up and down the sand hills, our pointer, who
had been let loose, brought it to bay in a salt bush.

A large tin case was fitted up for tlie Inabitation of tliese
animals, and provided with coarse barley grass, upon which, as
the natives informed me, they feed. Insects, particularly Grass-
hoppers, were also put into the box, and, though they were rather
restless at first, and made vain attempts to jump out, they appeared
snug enough in the morning, having constructed a completely
covered nest with the grass and some dried leaves.

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14 VERTEBRATA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

liberty. I kept these animals upon lettuces, barley grass, bread,
and some bulbous roots, for six weeks, until the camp was broken
up, when they were killed for the sake of their skins.

I think that about 8 specimens of this species were secured
during our stay ; several of which, proved to be females with
good sized young ones in the pouch, which is very deep and runs
upwards, not like that of a Kangaroo. All were provided with
8 teats, and bore 2 young ones, only one pair of teats being

drawn.

I may mention here that the Chceropus drinks a good deal of
water, but will neither touch meat nor attack or eat mice, as the
other members of this family do.

Their dung, which I often examined when oub hunting, was
entirely composed of grass, very dry, about the size of sheep's
trundles, but much longer, so that I believe, that in a state of
nature, they feed principally upon vegetables. They are very
good eating, and I am sorry to confess that my appetite more
than once over-ruled my love for science ; but 24 hours upon
"pig- face " (mesembryanthemum) will damp the ardour of any
naturalist.

The young which I took from the pouch of several females,
never exceeded 2 in number, and were so far advanced, that I con-
clude that the breeding season is in May or June. It is a
curious fact, that the third toe in the fore feet of the Chceropus is
much more developed in the young than in the adult animal : in
fact, the former looked more like a young Perameles, than a
CJiceropus ; the limbs being short and strongly made the basal
half of the tail, which in the adult is covered with long black
hair, is of a dark purple colour in the nude young animal. The
eye of this species, which is very large and brilliant, is represented
much too small in Gould's figures.

10. PERAGALEA LAGOTIS.
Rabbit Rat.

Wuirrapur, (Murray natives.)
Jecko, (Darling tribes.)

Tiiis beautiful animal, like many other species, has long ago
retreated to the north of the Murray. It is social, not gregarious,

[Begin Page: Page 15]

BY GERARD KREFFT. 15

in its habits, only found in pairs scattered over the wide plains
formerly the sole domain of the Kangaroo and Emeu. It digs
into the ground, forming a burrow like a rabbit, but with only
one entrance, and differs herein from Bettongia Grail, the burrows
of which are provided with several outlets, and may easily be dis-
tinguished from those of the Peragalea.

As this " Rabbit Rat " often prefers entering the ground on
a hill side, and as hills, even of very slight elevation, are often
scarce on these extensive plains, it will sometimes happen, that
the Peragalea takes advantage of the mound raised upon a
departed black-fellows grave, providing for itself a habitation
beneath the natives weary bones. Upon this ground an inves-
tigator asserted, some years ago, that this animal dug out the
dead bodies of the natives and fed upon them. I think that
every naturalist that has the slightest knowledge of the habits of

this animal, will agree with me, that it is no resurrectionist, and
if it takes advantage of the " mound," it is only for convenience
sake, and not for criminal purposes.

It is nocturnal in its habits, feeds upon grass, roots, insects,
&c., and always retires before dawn. Its flesh is very good
eating, though the fur has a peculiar sweetish smell which is
retained for years after the skin has been cured.

11. PERAMELES FASCIATA.
Banded Perameles.
Thill, (native name.)
Moncat (do. do.)

One of the many animals whose range extends from the east
to the west coast of the Continent, it is common on all parts of

[Begin Page: Page 16]

1 6 VERTEBRATA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

the Murray River, and is aiso found in Victoria, in Soutli Australia,
parts of Western Australia, and in the immediate neighbourhood
of Sydney.

Though provided with strong claws it seldom burrows, except
in search of its food, which consists of insects, bulbous roots,
various herbs, &c. Nocturnal and social in its habits, the striped
(so called) " Bandicoot " seeks shelter, during the day time, in
hollow logs, or under stones, although sometimes it constructs a
sort of nest like the Cheer opus.

This animal bears captivity well, and becomes very expert in
catching mice. I had several about the camp ; and they proved
as useful as cats.

I was in the habit of feeding the specimens kept in a large
tin case with various kinds of Rodents, which they killed with
astonishing quickness.

it would begin to satisfy its liunger.

During tine montlis of May, June, Juiy, and August, femaie
specimens provided witli 8 teats, and containing from 2 to 4
young were captured by tine natives. Those obtained in August,
Inad grown to tine size of a young rat ; fur, cream coloured, witli-
out tine markings upon tine iiaunclies, wliicli appear at a more
nature age.

The fiesh is paiatabie. The pouch runs upwards.

12. PERAMELES OBESULA.
Short-nosed Perameies.
Bandicoot of the settlers.
Pirrikin, Murray natives.

This animal is the most common of the Peramelidce, inhabiting
the whole of the Southern part of the Continent and Tasmania.
How far its range extends to the north, I have been unable to
ascertain, though I know that it is frequently met with on the
Clarence River.

The flesh is delicious, especially when done in the native style,

[Begin Page: Page 17]

BY GERARD KREFFT. 17

that is, the hair removed, and the game roasted upon the coais.
From May to September, femaies with from 2 to 3 young ones in
the pouch were frequently captured. In October or November,
the young progeny begin to shift for themselves.

The pouch is very deep, the entrance upwards, and contains
8 teats.

13. PHALANGISTA VTJLPINA.

Vulpine or Brush-tailed " Opossum "

So well known to everybody, that I shall not enlarge upon it ;
but merely remark that this species is the staff of life to the
natives.

I often admired my native friends, when after a hard day's
unsuccessful hunting they dropped in at the camp empty handed ;
how carefully they would examine the large flooded Gum-trees
(Eucalyptus rostratus), fringing the river banks, how nimbly they
would get a footing upon some hollow limb, and with what per-
severance "Possum" was dislodged, and perhaps, accidentally
dropped into the river, whence it had to be rescued by the black-
fellow's better half : for it was the question of " to eat or not
to eat."

How often the Phalangista vulpma produces young, I am not
able to tell with certainty. I think, judging by the large

numbers in every forest, several times a year. Tine female is
provided with only 2 teats, and seldom carries more than one
young one at the time.

14. PHALANGISTA VIVERRINA.
Ring-tailed Opossum.
Pirrath of the Murray natives.

A rare animal on the Murray and Darling. I secured no
more than two specimens during my stay there. It is much
lighter in colour than the species inhabiting the Swan River
colony. The pouch in the female is provided with 2 teats.

It is one of the characteristics of the flat country tra-
versed by the Murray and Darling, that no other species of the
Phalangistidce are found there.

The first Btlidceus I captured on my return, at Mount Ida,

[Begin Page: Page 18]

18 VERTEBRATA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

Mclvor Range, 80 miles distant from the Murray, is, according
to G-ould, a new species, and is figured by him in part XI. of his

Mammalia, 15, as " Belidmus notatus"

As I made many enquiries of tine Natives about tine genus
Petaurus, and found tlnat tliese animais are not known to tliem,
I do not liesitate to consider tlieir range to be restricted to tine
mountainous coast districts.

All the members of this family are nocturnal, and the female
is provided with one pair of mammas only. In the " Flying
Squirrels " the number of young is sometimes 2 ; but the
Koala or " Native Bear " never produces more than a single
young one at a time.

.The most formidable, and no doubt the handsomest species of
the whole tribe is,

15. OSPHRANTER RUFUS.

The Great Red Kangaroo.

Bullucur of the Murray natives.

Which has become very scarce upon the ieft bank of the
Murray, but is still found in considerable numbers in New South
Wales and South Australia. The range of this species to the
eastward does not extend much beyond Mount Hope.

This large beautiful animal, about which a great deal has
been written, ought to be well known to every colonist, and yet it is
only a few months ago that the very existence of such a creature
was doubted by an enlightened "critic," who was pleased to
designate this species as ante-diluvian ; indeed it must sound
like a fable to people who know little or nothing about such
matters, if they are informed that the male of this species is of a
foxy red, and the female of a bluish grey colour.

[Begin Page: Page 19]

BY GERARD KREFFT. 19

The Bed Kangaroos, like the great Kangaroo, (Macropus
major) feed in flocks, and, when disturbed, the old males cover
the retreat of the fleet females who are off first, so that specimens
of the latter sex are rare, the dogs generally stopping the pro-
gress of the rear-guard of the red " old men."

In wet weather, when the chalky top soil of the " Malley

scrub " is softened, these Kangaroos are easily captured : tliey
sink deep into tlie ground, and any biack-feiiow's cur, trained
for sucli work, wiii stick ta tlie taii of tine Kangaroo untii liis
master is abie to come up and crack its skuii, or run a spear
tlirougli it.

Tine femaie produces one young at a time, wliicli sine carries
in Iner poucin untii it is of considerabie size. As in aii tlie otiier
members of tliis famiiy, tine number of mammae is four.

Tlie fiesh is very paiatabie I prefer it to tliat of Macropus
major.

16. MACEOPUS MAJOR.

Tlie Great Kangaroo.
Buiiucur of tlie Murray natives.

A mucin more common species tlian tlie preceding, and
simiiar in its liabits, tlie femaie producing oniy one young one at
a time. Tlie poucin lias 4 teats.

Dr. James C. Cox lias iateiy presented two young of tliis
species to the Museum, which were both taken from the same
pouch. I mention this as being of very rare occurrence ; they are
about I inch long.

17. ONYCHOGALEA FRENATA.

Bridled Nail-tailed Kangaroo.
Merrin of the Murray natives.

The most common of all the smaller species of the Kangaroo
tribe ; often seen out during the day-time, though, when observed
in captivity, much livelier at night ; gregarious, the female
producing one young at a time, generally in the beginning
of May ; pouch confaining 4 teats. Its flesh is white and well
tasted.

[Begin Page: Page 20]

20 VERTEBRATA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

18. LAGORCHESTES LEPOKOIDES.

Hare Kangaroo.

Turatt of the Murray natives.

Common upon the level country between the Murray and
Darling ; strictly nocturnal and solitary in its habits ; it is seen
during the day-time only, and is generally found asleep under
some salt bush, or in any other sheltered locality. The Hare
Kangaroo is the fleetest of the whole tribe, and will, when hotly
pressed, take leaps more than 8 feet high.

A single young one is produced at a time ; pouch furnished
with 4 teats. This species is easily tamed, and I have kept

several at the camp, which lived well on biscuit, bread, or boiled
rice.

Its flesh is delicious, in fact some of the best meat I ever
tasted.

19. BETTONGIA EUFESCENS.
Rufous Bettongia.
Kangaroo Rat.

This animal, so common in the neighbourhood of Sydney, has
not been observed by me to the westward of the Murrumbidgee,
where Bettongia penicillata appears to take its place. Not a single
specimen was procured by the natives during my stay at the
Darling Junction ; so that 1 have no doubt about the extent of
its range. This animal is easily tamed, and 1 have kept a young
one about the size of a large rat for several weeks. The little
animal often followed me upon my excursions, seeking shelter
upon the approach of danger by creeping between my boots and
trousers.

Only one young is brought forth in June, though the pouch
contains 4 teats. The flesh of this animal is also very palatable.

20. BETTONGIA PENICILLATA.
Pencil-tailed Bettongia.
Pattuck of the Murray natives.

The smallest of the whole family, nocturnal In Its habits.

Those occasionally seen during the day time have been disturbed.

[Begin Page: Page 21]

BY GERARD KREFFT. 21

It Is not very quick, and Is easily caught, even by common dogs.
I have from time to time kept* numbers of these animals In
captivity In an enclosure of pine logs about seven feet high,
which they used to climb with a nimbleness truly astonishing,
and thus often escaped. During the day time I always noticed
these creatures crouching Into some corner ; the tall brought
forward between the hind legs, the head between their paws ;
fast asleep. I noticed that they are very partial to the thick
clusters of Polygonum scrub so frequent on the Murray.

Female specimens, with never more than 1 young attached to
one of the 4 teats, were frequently brought to me by the natives.
Single specimens, with a white brush at the end of the tall,
occur occasionally.

This Bettongia and B. Ogllbeyl appear to be so closely allied
to each other that I should consider them the same species.

21. BETTONGIA GRAM.

Gray's Jerboa Kangaroo v
Booming of the Murray natives.

Tiiis burrowing Bettongia has iong retreated before the herds
of cattie with which the piains bordering on the Murray are now
stocked ; and it is no ionger to be found south of that river, so,
at ieast, the natives assured me, and whenever we went out hunt-
ing for it, we always had to cross to the New South Wales side.

Not a single specimen of my collection was procured in
Victoria. Although this species is constantly furnished with a
brush of white hairs at the end of the tail, I consider it identical
with Gould's B. GraU, in which the white mark is wanting.

The best plan is always to dig them out ; an operation in
which the black-fellows are very expert, though it is rather
tedious work ; the holes running into each other, and being

[Begin Page: Page 22]

22 VEETEBEATA OF THE LOWEE MUEEAY,

sometimes ten feet deep ; and several shafts may have to be
sunk, before a couple of " Bookings " can be secured.

I have often seen several acres of ground covered with their
holes.

I have no doubt that this, and, perhaps, many of the other
species, breeds several times during the year, but brings forth one
young only. The pouch of the female is furnished with 4 teats.

It is difficult to keep them in captivity, as they are very wild
indeed ; and either escape by a burrow, or kill themselves in
running their heads against the enclosure.

These are all the Marsupial animals proper which I have
observed ; it will however be necessary to say a few words about
the sub-class of the Marsupial Group, the Monotremata, which is
represented by the following species.

22. OKNITHOEHINCHUS ANATINUS.
The Duck-billed Platypus.

according to Bennett, brings fortli 3 young ones at a time ; some
found by tliat naturaiist were one incli and seven-eiglitlis in
iengtii. Its food consists of fresln water worms, moiiusca, worms,
insects, &c.

Tliis is about aii we know of tine Piatypus, and cannot I do
better for tlie benefit of science tiian draw attention to Pro-
fessor Owen's remarks in liis elaborate paper on the monotremata ;
The great anatomist says :

" The principal points in the generative economy of this para-
doxical species still remain to be determined by actual observation.

1 . Manner of copulation.

2. Season of copulation.

3. Period of gestation

4. The nature and succession of the temporary structures

developed for the support of the foetus during gestation.

5. The exact size, condition, and powers of the young at the

time of birth.

[Begin Page: Page 23]

BY GEKAKD KKEFFT. 23

6. The act of suckling.

7. The period during which the young requires the lacteal
nourishment, and the age at which the animal attains

its fall size."

Knowing that many gentlemen in the country take great
interest in Natural History, and have frequent opportunities of
observing the Ornithorliynchus, I beg to draw their attention to
the questions yet to be solved.

24. ECHIDNA HYSTRIX.
The Spiny Echidna.

This singular animal, of which I have seen two preserved
skins at Mount Hope, is almost less known than the Platypus.
Its geographical range does not extend far into the flat country,
and it is generally found in mountain ranges among rocks and
stones ; a shepherd at Mount Hope assured me that the animals
which he had preserved were captured at the mount ; the natives
further down the river did not appear to be aware of the existence
of such an animal as the Echidna ; their food is said to consist

principally of ants and their eggs, though I have kept many in cap-
tivity and offered them the food mentioned, but without success.
Upon hen-eggs they subsist for some time ; they also like bread
and milk, but seldom live longer than two or three months in
captivity. I have reason to believe that, strange as it may appear,
the Echidna lives upon grass also, as I have examined several
which had the intestines full of digested grass or herbs.

Of the generation of this species nothing is as yet known, nor
have I ever seen a very young Echidna, none at least less than
six or eight inches long.

REPTILIA.

To investigate the Reptilian fauna of a country, a longer
stay than six months is necessary, and the species which I am
going to enumerate must be considered as but a small portion
of the reptiles inhabiting those districts. The country consists of
large plains without a stone npon them, studded with salt-bush.

[Begin Page: Page 24]

VERTEBRATA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

pine forests, or mallee scrub, affording the agile reptiles unusual

facilities for escape during tine summer. In the cold season these
creatures, owing to the nature of the country, retreat into the
ground, so that they can only be obtained with great difficulty ;
and this is the cause that the collection made during my sojourn
on the Murray was but a scanty one.

Those which were observed belonged to the following
genera :

SAURIA.

b. Geissosaura.

CHELONIA. LChelodina.

f-a. Leptoglossae. 2 . Hydrosaurus.

r 3. Pygopus.

4. Lialis.
5 7. Hinulia.

8. Mocoa.

9. Siaphos.

10. Trachydosaurus.

11. Cydodus.

12. Tropidolepisma.
1315. Diplodactylus.

'^c. Pachyglossee. '^ 16 18. Pliyllurus.

19 22. Grammatophora.
not venomous. 23. Morelia.

( 24. Acanthophis.

25 26. Diemenia.

venomous 1 27 28. Pseudechis

29. Hoplocephalus.

30. Tjimnodynastes.
3133. .EfyZa.

34. Pelodryas.

OPHIDIA.

BATRACHIA.

CHELONIA.

I. CHELODINA LONGICOLLIS.

The long-necked Tortoise.

This aquatic reptile is found in considerable numbers in the
Murray and its tributaries. It affords food to the natives,
especially during the summer, when the lagoons are dry, as it can

[Begin Page: Page 25]

BY GERARD KREFFT. 25

then be procured in large numbers without difficulty. Their eggs,
which are deposited in the beginning of January, amount to 1 5 or
20, perhaps even more, as the natives, who consume them in
quantities, informed me.

Like all tortoises, the preseut species is very tenacious of life.
On one occasion, a specimen was brought to the camp pierced by
a spear : for the sake of experiment, it was put into a case, and
kept for a few months, at the end of which, the wound was found
completely closed, and the animal as lively as if nothing had
happened to it.

SAURIA.

2. HYDROSAURCS VARIUS.
The Lace Lizard.

I believe the present striped species, and tine iarge spotted or
Gigantic Lace Lizard (3. giganteus) to be identical ; tliis is one of
tlie most common forms on tine plains of the Murray ; so common,
in fact, that I have often captured half a dozen of them on my
return to the camp ; they were generally found basking in the
sun, close to their holes, down which they disappeared with
extraordinary swiftness when disturbed. They grow to a large
size, as much as 7 or 8 feet long, and feed upon carrion, as well
as upon living animals ; on various occasions several pounds of
bones, and once a large " opossum " was taken from the stomach
of one of these reptiles.

Their eggs, of which they deposit some 1 or 1 5, are large,
covered with a tough leathery membrane ; the young lizards being
more than 10 inches long, at the time of^birth.

The present species is well distributed over almost every part
of Australia.

3. rVGOPUS LEPIDOPODUS.

The Pygopus.

This, at first appearance, snake -like form, is occasionally met
with, but not so frequently as other Lizards : its flat tongue, the
two rudimentary limbs near the anus, and its ear-holes, easily
distinguish it from a true snake.

[Begin Page: Page 26]

26 VERTEBRATA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

The number of eggs deposited by the present species, seldom
exceeds 3 or 4, they are of very elongate form, 3 or 4 times as
long as they are broad, and are generally hatched by the powerful
rays of the sun in 3 or 4 weeks. This lizard also has a very
wide distribution.

There has been a second species of Pygopus observed on the
Murray, marked with much more brilliant colours than any
hitherto known; but owing to the mutilated state of the specimen
which was captured by the natives, it was found impossible to
preserve it or give a correct description thereof.

4. LIALIS BURTONI.

Burton's Lialis.

This is another snake-like form, with pointed muzzle, a single
specimen of which came under my notice ; its range is very
extensive, as I have at various times received specimens from the
Clarence River, and from farther north. Sir George Grey
mentions its occurrence in Western Australia. In its habits, it is
similar to the Pygopus.

5. HINULIA ELEGANS.
Elegant Hinulia.

6. HINULIA ATJSTEALIS.

Australian Hinulia ; and

7. HINULIA TENUIS.

Slender Hinulia.

8. MOCOATRILINEATA.

New Holland Moco.

This widely distributed small Lizard has been frequently

[Begin Page: Page 27]

BYGEEARDKREFFT. 27

captured, ifc is very common under bark, or among dead leaves
or branches. Its eggs are deposited among decomposed leaves
in moist places, and are from 1 to 1 6, and perhaps more in
number. I have often taken as many as 50 out of one of these
breeding places, but I believe that they were the produce of
several lizards.

In the neighbourhood of Sydney, where M. trilineata is very
common, the eggs are generally laid between the fronds of the
so called " Staghorn fern."

9. SIAPHOS EQUALIS.

The Siaphos.

This is another small Lizard, with very short three-toed limbs ;
it frequents shady or dark places, and lays but a limited number
of eggs.

10. TRACHYDOSAURUS RUGOSUS.
Rugose Stump-tail.

A large, lazy, and very common kind of Lizard, generally
known as the " Sleeping Lizard," which frequents open sandy
plains, and may be captured in large numbers during a hot
summer's day.

The number of young produced, seldom exceeds 4, those
dissected by me had 2 embryos only. I believe these Lizards do

not inhabit tine east coast, at all events they are not found near
Sydney, or at the Hastings or Clarence Rivers.

In Western Australia, particularly in the neighbourhood of
King George's Sound they are very common.

11.CYCL0DUSGIGAS.
Giant Gyclodus.

Whether this species is identical with the large Gyclodus of
the east coast I cannot at present determine. Peters has des-
cribed a Gyclodus from South Australia, and Dr. Schomburgk who
discovered this new species informs me that our common Giant
Gyclodus does not exist near Adelaide ; if this is correct, the
Gyclodus found on the Murray, would be referable to Peters'
G. occipitalis.

[Begin Page: Page 28]

28 VERTEBRATA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

One or two specimens of this Lizard were captured by the
natives.

I had been always under the impression that these reptiles
produced 2 or perhaps 3 young only, but not long ago I
dissected a large female specimen and took therefrom fifteen

well formed young, each about from 5 to 6 inches long.
This species is prized by the natives as an article of food.

12. TROPIDOLEPISMA KINGTI.
King's Tropidolepisma.

This species, (the smallest of the genus) is alone found on
the Murray, its range extends almost from the east to the west
coast, though in the immediate neighbourhood of Sydney it does
not occur.

The number of eggs or young produced by this Lizard has
not been ascertained.

13. DIPLODACTYLUS VITTATUS.

Yellow Crowned Diplodactyle.

This little Gecko is rather rare, as not more than 5 specimens
were procured through the natives during my stay on the Murray ;
its distribution is very extensive, and, in fact, includes almost
every part of Australia. The Australian Museum is in possession
of specimens from the North East Coast, from the Murrumbidgee,
and from South and West Australia. Near Sydney this species
is tolerably common. It is oviparous, producing about 6 eggs.

14. DIPLODACTYLUS ORNATUS.

Beautiful Diplodactyle.

I do not think tliat tliere is anotlier species of Lizard, so
common and so wideiy distributed as tliis ; every tree aiong tine
river banks liarbours iarge numbers of tliem, and wlierever a
piece of dry bank is removed, tliis little Gecko is sure to be found
beneath, in company with various species of Coleoptera, Blattse,
and spiders. In stony localities it frequents the shady side of
rocks, &c. In its habits this Lizard is truly nocturnal.

[Begin Page: Page 29]

BY GERARD KREFFT. 29

15. DIPLODACTYLUSOCELLATUS.

The Eyed Diplodactyle.

Of this rare Lizard a few solitary specimens were captured,
and these were in bad preservation and scarcely to be recognized.
The Museum has, however, lately received well preserved speci-
mens from the Murrumbidgee, through the kindness of Mr.
William MacLeay, M.L.A., so that I am able to enumerate this
Gecko, as inhabiting the Murray Plains.

16. PHTLLURUS PLATURUS.

Broad-tailed Gecko.

17. PHYLLURUS INERMIS.
Spineless Gecko.

18. PHYLLURUS MILIUSII.
Thick-tailed Gecko.

Have been obtained in the Mclvor ranges and near Mount
Hope ; on the Murray Plains, no specimens were observed,
though they may exist there. These three Geckos are common
near Sydney and at the Clarence and Richmond Rivers ; the last
mentioned species also occurs in Western Australia.

19. GRAMMATOPHORACRISTATA.
Crested Grammatophora.

The distribution of the present species does not extend, as
far as my experience goes, beyond the mountainous districts ;
upon the dividing range specimens were frequently observed, but
in the plain country they disappeared. The natives informed me
that this lizard existed near Mount Hope, but they never cap-
tured it.

I have watched one under water for more than forty minutes,
I was then called away, but on my return half an hour afterwards
I could not see the least indication that the lizard had stirred ;

[Begin Page: Page 30]

30 VERTEBRATA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

again I watched it for some twenty minutes longer, and gave it up
at last, the reptiles being apparently under no necessity to breathe.

20. G-RAMMATOPHORA MDRICATA.

The Common Grammatophora.

yhis is a well-known and very common species found in
nearly every part of Australia. It is fond of basking in the sun,
and may be frequently observed sitting motionless on old
stumps upon road side fences, &c. From 5 to 8 eggs are
generally produced, and deposited in the sand.

21 . GRAMMATOPHORA ORNATA.

Yellow spotted Grammatophora.

This .species is found in large number upon all the open plains,
every tuft of grass and every salt bush sheltering several of these

gaily coloured creatures ; they vary considerably in their markings,
more so even than the previous species G. muricata. The number
of eggs produced amounts to about 8.

22. GRAMMATOPHORA BARBATA.
Bearded Grammatophora.

The number of eggs produced by this reptile is most likely
from 6 to 8, perhaps more.

OPHIDIA.

23. MORELIA VARIEGATA.

The Carpet Snake.

I am inclined to think that the Carpet Snake and the
Diamond Snake are identical, varying in colour in different
localities ; Carpet Snakes occur in every part of Australia, the

[Begin Page: Page 31]

BY GERARD KREFFT. 31

South East Coast excepted ; they differ from the Diamond Snake
in nothing but their markings, which consist of a series of brown
blotches with darker margins, whilst the Diamond Snake is of a
glossy bluish black, with a bright yellow spot in the centre of
nearly every scale.

24. ACANTHOPHIS ANTARCTICA.

The Death Adder.

Of this highly venomous snake, I obtained but a single speci-
men at Lake Boga ; it brings forth about 10 or 12 young ones.

25. DIEMENIA PSAMMOPHIS.
Grey Diemenia.

The present species so common near Sydney is not often met

with on the Murray, only one specimen being secured during 6
months ; its bite is not considered dangerous, causing only a
slight irritation, not as bad as the sting of a bee ; the total length
seldom exceeds 3 feet.

26. DIEMENIASUPERCILIOSA.
Brown Snake.

A species, which like many others, ranges from the East to the
West Coast, and perhaps extends over the whole continent, as
I have received specimens from Cape York. Near Sydney, and
along the East Coast, the young are distinctly black, banded
with a black patch upon the head ; but the young found on the
Lachlan and in other localities to the westward are not banded.
I have received specimens from Adelaide which are plain coloured
with black patches upon head and neck, but without bands. In
a few years these bands and black spots disappear more or less,
and the adult snake is generally of an uniform brown color; there
are some individuals on the coast, however, in which the bands
may be traced when full grown. In the specimens taken on the
Murray no bands or black marks could be detected.

[Begin Page: Page 32]

32 VERTEBRATA OF THE LOWER MURRAY,

This snake is highly venomous, and produces some 20 eggs.

which are deposited in the sand under some bramble or decayed
leaves ; it is frequently confounded with the following species.

27. PSEUDECHIS AUSTRALIS.

Yellow-bellied Brown Snake.

It is highly venomous.

28. PSEUDECHIS PORPHYRIACTJS.

Black Snake.

One of the most common and most venomous Snakes, distri-
buted over almost every part of Australia, common on the Murray,
and producing some twenty young annually.

29. HOPLOCEPHALUS CURTUS.
Brown-banded Snake.

This, the most vicious of all our reptiles, closely allied to the

Indian Cobra, is very common on tine piains, in particular in tine
reed-beds near Swan Hiii, and in otiier swampy places ; the
natives appear to be in great dread of this reptile, and assured
me that its bite was certain death.

This species is also found in almost every part of Australia.

These are all the Snakes actually observed by me, but no
doubt they do not represent all the species which exist in these
extensive plains.

BATRACHIA.

FROGS.

Of this order not many species were collected.

30. LIMNODYNASTES DORSALIS.

Striped Swamp Frog.

In a reed-bed near Lake . Boga a single specimen was

[Begin Page: Page 33]

BY GERARD KREFFT. 33

obtained. It is a common species near Sydney, on the Clarence
River, near Rylston, and in many other localities.

31.HYLAAUREA.

Common Golden Tree Frog.

32. HYLA PEROXII.

Yellow-Legged Tree Frog.

This species, which ranges also over a great part of the
continent, is generally found during the day-time under the
bark of the "Flooded Gum" (Eucalyptus rostrata).

33. HYLAADELAIDENSIS.
Adelaide Tree Frog.

This species is not common on the Murray ; its range extends
as far as Western Australia.

34. PELODRYAS OERULEUS.
Great Green Tree Frog,

The largest of our Batrachians, found in every part of Aus-

tralia, and in New Guinea. I Inave seen specimens as large as a
man's fist. Tliis species feeds upon almost every living object
that can be swallowed : lizards, frogs, all kinds of insects, and
young birds for I have once taken the nestling of a small
honey-eater out of the stomach of one of these insatiable
reptiles.

This concludes my notice of the reptilian fauna of the Lower
Murray, which, as before mentioned, will prove much richer both
in genera and species than it appears at present to be. I could
enumerate some 5 or 6 more species, but these were in such bad
preservation that it was found impossible to determine their
character with certainty.

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